lecture 10 pt 4

Terrain Analysis Data and Practical 10

The terrain analysis data for practical 10, scheduled for week 12, is available. Although there are no mandatory questions associated with it, engaging with this practical is highly recommended before finalizing your project. It offers valuable insights into variable interactions.

Location of Data

Instructions are available on UQ Extend.

Calculating Weights

A video guide is provided demonstrating the process of inputting numbers into Excel and setting up formulas for weight calculation.

Report Writing Guidance

General Structure

A template has been provided for the GIS project report. The structure is flexible to accommodate individual logical flows.

Introduction (1500 words)

  • Background & Significance: Provide context and justify the selection of GIS. A rationale is needed for choosing analytical mass approach. For example, imagine work for a council and make an argument for your chosen method.
  • Report Description: Include report's aims and objectives. Clarity is crucial as this section, along with the discussion, is heavily scrutinized.

Methods

  • Allocate more words to this section. Conciseness and clarity are key. Tables are useful for organizing variables.
  • Include only essential information related to results.
  • Briefly describe data and methods, including decision rules and justifications for method choices.
  • Consider sensitivity analysis by altering weights to assess result changes; this adds value to the project.
  • A table can consolidate data sources.

Details to Include/Exclude:

  • Include: Name of the approach used.
  • Justify: Reason for choosing a specific approach is important, why is suitability analysis a good approach.
  • Exclude: Specific GIS steps (e.g., polygon to raster conversion).

Suitability Analysis:

If a suitability analysis is performed, justify its appropriateness for addressing the research question. The specific tool used doesn't matter.

Results

  • Present only final results.
  • Describe what the results mean; avoid including processing steps or failed attempts.
  • If criteria maps are essential, condense them into a single image to conserve space.
  • Focus on key information and findings.

Discussion

  • Discuss the broader implications of the results, particularly in terms of land use planning.
  • Address limitations of the chosen methods and potential alternative approaches for improved reliability.
  • Focus on the implications of the work.

Conclusion

  • A conclusion is optional if all key points are covered in the discussion.

References

  • Maintain consistency in referencing style throughout the report.
  • UQ Library offers resources on referencing styles.

FAQs

  • Word Limit: A 10% margin is allowed.
  • Figures, tables, and appendices are excluded from the word count.
  • References: Aim for 10 references, 8 is acceptable.
  • Inset Map: Optional for adding detail.
  • ArcGIS Online: Uploading one map with a working URL is sufficient.

Inclusion of a Table

Word limits will be estimated including the table, but they won't be very harsh.

Land Use Decision

The land use decision can be in the results or discussion section, depending on where it fits best logically.

Key Points

  • The primary goal is to present a clear and logical flow throughout the report.
  • Guidance provided is suggestive rather than strictly prescriptive.