Learning Objectives: Geography 460

1. Understanding how a method of representation encapsulates rules of measurement
2. Understanding transformations that generate new relationships and information
3. Examining and mastering the basic contents of a current GIS toolkit including:
   1. requirements to use a particular tool
   2. steps for implementation
   3. familiarity with limitations of tools and appropriate use
4. Connecting steps 1-3 above to the broader social context considering such concepts as:
   1. efficiency: the assessment of tools (how well they achieve their ends; the tradeoffs between quality and budget constraints, etc.)
   2. effectiveness: how well you achieve your goals
   3. equity: questions of access and distribution
   4. institutional goals and social practices: actors, networks and social construction of technology
5. Working in project teams

Acquired Skills - Learning Outcomes expected

Geog 460: A social contract

What the instructor will do:

• engaging, challenging lecture performances
• leave a thread of web connections for further depth
• challenge each student to question
• attend discussion events
• be available for office hours and on email for questions
• encourage your comments about the textbook

What the instructor will NOT do:

• tell the students the "correct" answer
• curve your grade to fit some expected distribution
• play the "Game of School"; I expect professionals to do their best

What the TAs will do:

What students CAN do:

• acquire GIS skills in a supportive environment
• participate in discussion sections to reenforce lecture content (stop the instructor from lecturing in discussion sections)
• produce a professional report using GIS toolkit for a real-world problem
• ask critical questions about information technology and its application

What students will NOT have to do:

• hold back in interaction with other students for fear of wrecking their own grade
• wonder "what is on the test", the WHOLE thing is on the test...