Bachelor of Arts (BA) - The University of Hong Kong

178GEOG2011.Introduction to geographic information systems (6 credits)(This course is also offered to second and third year non-BA students for inter-Faculty broadeningpurposes.)This course introduces students to the computer-assisted techniques of geographic data analysis,collectively known as GIS, which involve the overlaying and merging of spatial data layers. Theprinciples of such an approach will be discussed focusing on the nature of the spatial data, raster andvector data structures, data transformation and geocoding, modeling techniques, and accuracyevaluation of spatial databases. Students must complete a simple project embodying the application ofthe GIS concept in a real-life situation.Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.This course will be offered in the first semester.GEOG2012.Survey and statistical techniques in geography (6 credits)(This course is also offered to second and third year non-BA students for inter-Faculty broadeningpurposes.)The course introduces students to the use of surveys and (spatial and non-spatial) statistics in geography.The aim is to provide students with a basic understanding of research methodology and techniquescommonly used in the discipline. Following a discussion of the uses, implementation and limitations ofsurveys, various descriptive and inferential statistics of spatial concentration, associations andautocorrelation are introduced. Underlying concepts and theories are illustrated with practicalapplications drawn extensively from both physical and human geography. Classroom teaching issupplemented by computer laboratory sessions and project work.Assessment: 100% coursework.This course will be offered in the second semester.GEOG2013.Sustainable development (6 credits)(This course is also offered to second and third year non-BA students for inter-Faculty broadeningpurposes.)This course evaluates the links between environmental protection and economic development. Theworld must manage its natural and environmental resources to meet the human needs of the presentwhile at the same time preserving these resources for future generations. The course introducesstudents to different views on how human society can achieve the goal of economic growth withoutdepleting the Earth's capital and jeopardizing the planet's life support system. It aims to enhancestudents' understanding of the issues relating to sustainable development. Although the course cannotprovide complete answers to the issues, it helps develop students' ability of critical thinking and suggestpromising directions in which answers may be sought.Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.This course will be offered in the second semester.GEOG2014.Countryside recreation and management (6 credits)(This course is also offered to second and third year non-BA students for inter-Faculty broadeningpurposes.)Expansion in leisure time has led to an associated increase in recreation. The countryside can provide arange of activities and attractions. The course examines the countryside as a resource and looks atplanning and management issues. The provision of leisure will also be examined. Special case studiesof National Parks in the USA and UK, along with Country Parks in Hong Kong will be undertaken.Recreation around urban areas will also be studied. Competing claims for rural land and conflictsresulting from rural recreation will also be examined.Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% examination.This course will be offered in the first semester.