Through advanced supervised field GIS, along with concurrent class meetings to discuss GIS experiences, students continue to learn how to integrate their coursework with GIS practice in real life settings. The field instruction includes discussion of GIS project development and deliverables.
This field study gives students the opportunity for first-hand experience managing a GIS-related problem from beginning to end using project management tools and GIS. Students see the fruits of their labors by doing data acquisition, managing GIS workflow, and presenting results. In this field study, students reinforce their knowledge and further hone their GIS skills.
Because this course places the student in the field, this course gives the student a broad understanding of managing GIS work and project management. In order to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth, students must know how to make good decisions and manage scarce resources and this requires leadership, planning on the ground, and making decisions based on experience.
This course conforms to the Biblical affirmation in Genesis wherein God gave man dominion over the Earth and all living things.
Learning by doing is essential to the logistical aspects of missional work, including project management, decision making, and leadership.
Students will GIS software, project management tools, and apply their skills and knowledge in roles much like they will in the context of missional work.
Students are placed in international contexts, either physically or virtually, in which they observe how culture and public policy influence physical geography.
Students leave the course with real experience and an advanced understanding of the practical and logistical roles of GIS professionals and management of GIS work.
With an understanding of GIS software and the contexts in which it is employed, students come away with real experience preparing them for their missional roles.
