Advanced Spatial Analysis and Modelling, 15 Credits

Contents

The course aims to develop skills and knowledge in spatial methods and analyses. The course covers different types of regression models and cluster analysis, focusing on their application in geographical analysis. The spatial analysis perspective also includes geographical information data management, visualization and analysis of spatial dynamics and regional data. Both descriptive and analytical quantitative approaches are dealt with.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
1. Understand the preconditions for analyzing spatial data
2. explain relevant spatial methods
3. understand the difference between various spatial quantitative methods

Competence and skills
4. handle spatial autocorrelation in quantitative analysis,
5. carry out and understand GIS-based measurements of spatial data,
6. utilize GIS for enhanced statistical analysis,
7.  analyze different planning problems using relevant methods and software,
8. show ability to conduct and present assignments within given time frames

Judgement and approach
9. critically assess and interpret own and others' analyses, both orally and written, in English,
10. critically assess statistical analyzes from a societal perspective.

Required Knowledge

Univ: 120 ECTS, 60 ECTS of which in a major field of subject.

Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

The teaching is mainly based on lectures, exercises and supervision, as well as seminars were students are expected to actively participate. The teaching is given in English.

Examination modes

The course is examined through following tests:
- five individually written assignments (0-10 credits)
 -one term paper (larger written individual assignment) which is presented at a seminar (0-30 credits) 
The assignments are graded according to the above instructions. The maximum credit on the course is 80. At a minimum, 50 percent of the maximum credits for each assignment is required to pass. Late submitted assignments cannot achieve more than 70 percent of the maximum credits for the assignment. If additional work is required to pass an assignment, the revised assignment must be submitted within 10 days from announcement of credits by the teacher. The graded used for the whole course are; A, B, C, D, E, F or FX.
 
If special reasons exist, the examiner have the right to decide for another examination form. For students in need of special pedagogical support due to disabilities, individual adaptation of examination forms should always be considered based on the student's needs.  The examination form is adjusted within the framework of the course syllabus' intended learning outcomes. The course coordinating teacher shall, upon request from the student, consult with the examiner to quickly decide on an adjusted form of examination. The decision shall then be conveyed to the student.
 
It is not possible to appeal against a received grade, i.e. to get it examined by a higher authority, but a student can always criticize the grading or ask the examiner to reconsider the examination
 
Students who have passed an examination cannot redo the examination to receive a higher grade. For students who have not passed an ordinary examination occasion, a new occasion for examination (a re-sit) is offered according to Umeå University's Grading and examination regulations for first- and second-cycle studies (Regulation FS 1.1.2-553-14).
A re-sit shall be offered no later than two months after the ordinary examination occasion, but no less than ten working days after the results of the ordinary examination have been announced.  
A student who on two occasions has failed an examination has the right to have another examiner appointed if there are no specific reasons for not doing so (HF chap. 6, §22). Such a request shall be processed as soon as possible. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the director of undergraduate studies.

 
 
ACADEMIC CREDIT TRANSFER
 
A student has the right to apply for a transfer of credits for previous education or activity. Applications regarding transfer of credits are processed by Student Services.
https://www.umu.se/en/student/my-studies/transfer-of-credits/

Other regulations

In case a course syllabus is no longer valid or has undergone significant revisions, students are guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the regular examination session) according to the course syllabus the student initially was registered on, for a maximum of two years.