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Case study:
Using OS Meridian data as a spatial framework in the construction of a GIS of the built environment

Description

This case study will allow students to work in groups on a GIS project using a variety of digital data sources relating to the built environment. These data sources include OS Meridian data, socio-economic data and environmental data. The outcome is to construct a GIS for a small area that contains information relating to the built environment and the people who live there. The framework of the GIS will be based principally upon OS Meridian data from Digimap. The remaining data can be accessed from the web using postcode information as the main geo-referencing tool. The main data sources to be used can be found on the following web sites:

• Digimap - Spatial digital framework data

• Royal Mail - Information on home address and postcodes

• Friends of the Earth - Environmental data

• HM Land Registry - House price data for postcode sectors

• Centre for Computational Geography, University of Leeds - Social class profile for unit postcode

Students, working as a team, must extract information from each web site and then integrate it with Digimap (Meridian) data within the GIS. The students can then use the GIS to undertake some simple mapping and analysis. The students will be given a list of targets that must be achieved in each practical / workshop session and assessment exercises, examples of which are included in the students' notes.

Working as a group on a GIS project will help students develop teamwork skills and also give an indication of some of the problems and pitfalls encountered when undertaking GIS research. In particular, it will give hands-on insight into the problems of data input and GIS construction.

The case study is aimed at students with intermediate / advanced level GIS skills. Students should have a reasonable knowledge of the Internet, a GIS package and some theory about undertaking a GIS project and integrating different sources of data. The case study would provide a useful exercise for City and Regional Planning students and Geography students. It develops ideas of using Digimap data - in this case Meridian - as a spatial digital framework upon which a GIS can be developed. It also explores ideas of data integration, flagging up issues of error, generalisation, data management etc. that can reinforce material covered in lectures.

Last updated: June 24, 2003