Review

This module introduced you to GIS and ArcGIS. A GIS is a computer-based tool for getting information that can be used to make decisions and solve problems. ArcGIS is a scalable GIS software product used to interact with maps, data, and tools. Listed below are key points you should remember.

· A GIS organizes and stores information about the world as a collection of thematic layers. Each layer contains features with the same shape and attributes, all located within a common geographic area.

· Each feature is assigned a unique numerical identifier and is characterized by a unique location in space and a corresponding record in a table.

· Features can be stored in a GIS as three primary shapes: points, lines, or polygons.

· Features have spatial relationships with other features, and with a GIS you can find features based on their spatial relationships.

· The geographic inquiry process provides a framework for solving problems with GIS.

Review questions

1. How is a GIS map different from a static map?

2. What is one way you can get information about a feature using ArcGIS software?

3. What are the primary operations that a GIS can perform that make it a useful tool for solving problems?

4. What are the five steps in the geographic inquiry process?