ASSIGNMENT
You must answer all parts of all questions for complete credit. Write up your answers as the questions are structured below (1a, 1b, 1c and on). Submit your answers on canvas.
1. The lecture slides for Chapter 1 include 5 examples of maps created using GIS. Select one of the maps and identify what issue (or question or problem) is being addressed, what variables the mapmaker selected to answer the issue (question/problem) and describe how those variables were used together to address the issue (question/problem). (15 pts total)
Submit the following:
a. Identify and describe the issue/question/problem being addressed in this map (5 pts)
b. Identify the variables (types of information) for which data was collected and mapped (5 pts)
c. Briefly describe how those variables are used together to address the issue/question/problem (5 pts)
2. In class we simulated how GIS could be employed to help an insurance company determine which of their policy holders should be notified about a potentially dangerous storm. (https://www.esri.com Go to the tab: How GIS Works, scroll to the bottom of the page: Try it yourself). With this in mind, formulate a research question or problem in your personal field of study or area of interest and discuss how GIS could be employed to to help resolve the issue. (15 points total)
Submit the following:
a. Identify and describe your specific research question.
b. Identify and describe a MINIMUM of 5 variables for which you would gather data to answer your research question. Explain what purpose each variable would serve towards answering your research question.
c. Briefly describe how those variables would be used together to answer your research question.
3. Conduct an internet search to find a core (developed) country and a peripheral (developing) country that share a common environmental concern (for example, threats to forests, grasslands or wetlands, pollution, acid rain). Compare and contrast the different ways core and peripheral countries are addressing the same issue and provide some explanation for similarities and differences. Be sure to cite all sources used.
Submit the following:
a. Identify a core country and a peripheral country. Briefly describe your criteria for identifying how you categorized each country as you did.
b. Identify and briefly describe an environmental issue/concern that exists in both countries.
c. Identify SPECIFIC ways each country is dealing with those issues (for example in policies, laws, treaties, influencing citizens' actions).
d. Compare and contrast the methods being employed in each country to identify similarities and differences. Explain why these similarities and differences might exist. What factors influence how each country deals with the issue?