Teaching introductory GIS programming to geographers using an open source Python approach

Abstract

Computer programming is not commonly taught to geographers as a part of geographic information system (GIS) courses, but the advent of NeoGeography, big data and open GIS means that programming skills are becoming more important. To encourage the teaching of programming to geographers, this paper outlines a course based around a series of laboratories that aims to provide an introduction to programming. Methods for teaching and assessment are recommended. These laboratories use core spatial concepts that are relevant for all areas of geographic study, and use an open source Python approach that has wider logistical and pedagogical benefits.

Keywords:

• constructive alignment
• core spatial concepts
• peer assessment
• reflective writing
• self-assessment
• structured and open-ended laboratories

Acknowledgements

Thanks to the students of: GEOG779 at The University of Auckland 2013; and GISC405 at Auckland University of Technology, Victoria University of Wellington and University of Canterbury 2015. Your successes, failures, reflections and feedback have been critical to the development of my approach to teaching GIS programming to geographers. I would also like to thank the reviewers and editor whose helpful suggestions significantly improved this paper.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.