Written for majors and non-majors alike, Introduction to Geospatial Technologies demonstrates the wide range of geographic technologies available to and used by geographers today. Each chapter contains an introduction to the key concepts and a lab activity, so that in addition to gaining a basic foundation of knowledge, students also obtain hands-on experience with the relevant software.
(Reading dates estimated) Used for Intro to Geospatial Technologies class Fall 2020 (5th edition).
WHAT I LIKED 1) APPROACHABLE!!! So many textbooks are so unapproachable and holier-than-thou, and it really impedes learning. Not so with this book! It’s so conversational and colloquial!! I’m not yet done with this book, but I had to pause my reading to comment this. I’m on chapter 6 now, and one of the opening phrases is: “now it’s time to start doing some things with GIS data.” Textbook authors almost never write like that because it’s technically not efficient in conveying any real ideas, BUT these authors often overlook the value of addressing the audience as modern learners who are used to information embedded in casual conversation. In short, I so appreciate Shellito’s informality. It makes a world of difference. (From Sept. 30, 2020)
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE/WHAT I LEARNED 1) occasionally overly technical And overwhelming with information.
A clear and concise look at the geospatial world we live in and how to apply these concepts into our lives. Easy to read. The labs need more guidance, like by an instructor.