Spatial Analysis

About the course

The course aims to develop skills and knowledge in quantitative and qualitative spatial methods and analyses. The first part of the course introduces central concepts within philosophy of science and relates these to the subject of human geography. The following part of the course provides knowledge in quantitative geographical methods and analyses. The course includes regression analysis with a spatial perspective, data management of geographical information, as well as visualization and analysis of spatial and regional data in GIS. The last part of the course provides knowledge in qualitative methods. Based on current human geography research different qualitative method traditions are treated, and the different stages of the qualitatively oriented research process, and special attention are paid to applications in sustainability work.

 
Module 1: Philosophy of Science, 3 credits
The module provides basic knowledge in philosophy of science and scientific work. Central concepts within philosophy of science are treated and related to the subject human geography. Historical scientific paradigms and different methodological traditions are discussed. Special attention is paid to the subject's tradition of mixed methods, where quantitative and qualitative methods are used together in human geographical research.
 
Module 2: Quantitative spatial analyses, 6 credits
The module deals with quantitative geographical methods and analyses relevant to investigations linked to spatial planning and tourism. During the module, regression analysis is treated with a spatial perspective. The spatial analytical perspective also includes data management of geographical information, as well as visualization and analysis of spatial and regional data in GIS. Both descriptive and analytical approaches are treated during the module.
 
Module 3: Qualitative spatial analyses, 6 credits
The module provides knowledge of qualitative methods in geographical research and applied spatial planning. Based on current human geographical research, various qualitative method traditions are treated, where special attention is paid to applications in sustainability work. The module deals with the qualitative focus of the research process from research design, collection of materials to analysis and writing. Particular focus is on data collection methods (including sampling) and conducting an interview study is included in the module.  

Are you interested in what students think about the course? If you send an email to Fredrik Gärling, you can receive the latest course evaluation.