Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2024

Course Code: GEOM5189C

Course Title: Create spatial data

School: 530T Built Environment and Sustainability

Campus: City Campus

Program: C4417 - Certificate IV in Surveying and Spatial Information Services

Course Contact: Matthew Sweeney

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4105

Course Contact Email: matthew.sweeney@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Dr Indira Wittamperuma

Surveying & Spatial Educator

Surveying Department

College of Vocational Education

RMIT University

MELBOURNE  3001

Victoria, Australia

Email: indira.wittamperuma@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 20

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

In this course you will develop the skills and knowledge required to validate spatial data and create a metadata statement. This includes evaluating project requirements and determining appropriate quality checks for the data. The course also includes applying industry-accepted methodologies to assess the validity and integrity of data.

This course is suitable for skilled surveying technicians and skilled spatial information system (SIS) technicians who use a broad range of cognitive, technical and communication skills to select and apply methods and technologies to analyse information and provide solutions to sometimes complex surveying/spatial information problems.

 


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CPPSSI5035 Create spatial data

Element:

1. Prepare to create spatial data

Performance Criteria:

1.1. Confirm project requirements in consultation with appropriate person. 1.2. Determine acceptance levels of data quality required for project in consultation with appropriate person. 1.3. Select data creation methods and resources including source data to meet project requirements. 1.4. Select data validation methods to meet project requirements. 1.5. Comply with legislative requirements, including data privacy, copyright and licensing while undertaking the project.

Element:

2. Create spatial data

Performance Criteria:

2.1. Access required data resources. 2.2. Create spatial data using geographic information system (GIS) application tools. 2.3. Use topological rules to define permissible relationships between features. 2.4. Resolve numerical and topological errors arising through processing. 2.5. Store spatial data according to organisational requirements.

Element:

3. Validate spatial data quality

Performance Criteria:

3.1. Use industry-accepted methods for evaluating the consistency, precision, accuracy and completeness of spatial data according to project specifications. 3.2. Resolve data quality issues in spatial data. 3.3. Identify and record the limitations of the spatial data according to organisational requirements.

Element:

4. Prepare metadata statement

Performance Criteria:

4.1. Document the validated dataset by completing a metadata statement according to organisational requirements. 4.2. Complete and file documentation according to organisational requirements. 4.3. Advise relevant users of the availability of the metadata according to organisational requirements.


Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements. 


Details of Learning Activities

You will lean how to : 

  • Prepare to create spatial data
  • Create spatial data
  • Validate spatial data quality
  • Prepare metadata statement


Teaching Schedule

Session/Date

Theme

Assessments

Session One

15 - 21 July

Lesson Title:

Introduction to Create and maintain spatial data

Description:

During this session, the student will be introduced to the assessment, and the teacher will provide a thorough overview of the assessment documentation, including its requirements and expectations.

In addition, software licenses will be distributed to you, allowing you to access and utilize the required software on your home computers for the assessment.

Furthermore, you will be informed about additional training opportunities available to you, such as LinkedIn Training, which offers a range of courses and resources to further enhance your skills and knowledge in the subject area. This will enable you to expand your learning beyond the classroom and gain valuable insights from various educational platforms.

 

Session Two

22 - 28 July

Lesson Title:

Defining project requirements and key components

Description:

During this session, the student will be introduced to the "Project Scoping Document," which serves as a comprehensive guide for defining the project requirements and key components that need to be addressed in collaboration with the client.

The document will cover various essential areas, including objectives, purpose, positional accuracy, validation methods, legislative requirements, datasets to be captured, GIS software, datasets provided, spatial data formats, map requirements (format, page size, orientation, type, scale, marginalia information), spatial reference (projection, datum, and coordinate system), cartographic design principles, metadata standards, backup schedule, upload requirements, Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) requirements when working on screen-based equipment, geoprocessing workflow, and the clarification and confirmation of task requirements.

By thoroughly discussing these areas, we aim to establish a clear understanding of the project scope and ensure alignment between all stakeholders involved.

 

Session Three

29 Jul - 04 Aug

Lesson Title:

Initial meeting requirement with client (Continued)

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task that involves participating in a meeting with the client. The purpose of the meeting is to engage in extensive discussions and document all project requirements, while also addressing a series of questions.

The main objective of these discussions and documentation is to establish a clear and precise understanding of the project scope, ensuring alignment among all stakeholders. This meticulous process will facilitate effective planning and execution of the assessment task, ultimately leading to a successful outcome.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in understanding and managing project requirements, as well as their ability to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders.

 

Session Four

05 - 11 August

 Lesson Title:

Obtain, validate and convert datasets into a GIS database

Description:

In this session, the student will engage in an assessment task focused on downloading and validating spatial datasets for a project using industry-accepted methods. The task requires the student to obtain the necessary datasets and upload them into an ESRI File Geo-database.

Before starting the task, the student will receive training on the appropriate methods for obtaining and validating spatial datasets. They will also become familiar with the relevant GIS software. This training will cover important aspects such as documenting the dataset's details like name, version number or currency date, format type, geometry, source location, spatial reference (projection, datum, and coordinate system), determined accuracy, discrepancies, suitability, and limitations.

In addition to the practical task, the student will be required to answer knowledge questions, demonstrating their understanding of the subject matter.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will showcase their proficiency in obtaining, validating, and managing spatial datasets, as well as their comprehension of the underlying concepts and principles.

 

Session Five

12 - 18 August

Lesson Title:

Capture spatial data using GIS Software

Description:

During this session, you will receive training on the process of capturing and manipulating spatial datasets using geo-processing tools within GIS software.

You will learn the necessary skills to effectively work with geo-spatial data, utilizing various tools and techniques within the GIS software to perform tasks such as data capture, editing, analysis, and processing.

Through this training, you will develop a solid understanding of geo-processing workflows and gain proficiency in managing spatial datasets for your respective projects or applications.

 

Session Six

19 - 25 August

 

Lesson Title:

Capture spatial data using GIS Software (Continued)

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned a task to capture spatial features, including points, lines, and polygons, along with their associated attributes, using geoprocessing tools and imagery within GIS software. The student's proficiency in utilizing the appropriate tools and imagery to accurately capture and represent spatial features, as well as capturing relevant attribute information, will be assessed.

In addition to the practical task, the student will be required to answer a series of questions that evaluate their understanding of the principles and techniques involved in capturing spatial features within GIS software. This assessment will enable the student to demonstrate their theoretical knowledge and practical application of spatial data capture.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will showcase their proficiency in spatial data capture, highlighting their ability to accurately capture and represent spatial features, utilize relevant tools and imagery, and manage attribute information effectively within a GIS environment.

 

Session Seven

26 Aug - 01 Sep

Lesson Title:

Validate and resolve errors

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task focused on validating and resolving spatial data problems or irregularities, particularly related to geometry and attribute errors within captured datasets.

To effectively address these issues, the student will undergo training on creating feature classes with attribute fields and utilizing topology tools. These tools will enable the student to identify, document, and rectify data quality issues associated with road and building datasets.

By familiarizing themselves with these techniques, the student will acquire the necessary skills to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the spatial data, thereby enhancing its overall quality and usability.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in identifying and resolving spatial data problems, showcasing their ability to maintain high-quality datasets that meet the required standards.

Assessment 1

 

Mid-semester break
02 - 08 September

The Mid-semester break is a scheduled break in the semester. No teaching or assessment will occur during this time. Also, your Trainer/Assessor won't be available during this time. If you need to contact them, please email them via your student email account, and they will respond once they return from the break. 

 

 

Census date for Semester1: 30 August

 

 

 

 

Session Eight

09 - 15 Sep

Lesson Title:

Design and produce map

Description:

During this session, the student will have the task of producing a precise and accurate map that adheres to specific requirements. The process will involve designing the map layout, producing the map using established cartographic design principles, and validating the map using a checklist to ensure accuracy.

The student will be responsible for symbolizing the data appropriately, considering factors such as colour, scale, and clarity. Once completed, the map will need to be exported as an Adobe PDF map and printed to scale, with the accuracy of the scale verified using a scale ruler. If any issues are identified during the validation process, the student will be expected to address and rectify them.

Furthermore, the student will be required to answer a knowledge question, demonstrating their understanding of the concepts and principles underlying map production, design, and validation. This will provide an opportunity for the student to showcase their comprehension of the subject matter and their ability to apply that knowledge in practical scenarios.

 

Assessment 1

Session Nine

16 - 22 September

Lesson Title:

Design and produce map (Continued)

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task that revolves around the creation of a precise and accurate map, covering the entire process of design, production, and validation.

To accomplish this, the student will employ a checklist and apply cartographic design principles to effectively symbolize the data. The final map will be exported as an Adobe PDF file and printed at the appropriate map scale, which will be verified using a scale ruler. Any identified issues or discrepancies will need to be promptly addressed and resolved to ensure the map's accuracy.

In addition to the practical task, the student will also be required to answer knowledge questions, showcasing their understanding of the concepts and principles related to map production, design, and validation. This will provide an opportunity for the student to demonstrate their theoretical knowledge and practical application of cartographic techniques and map creation processes.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in creating high-quality maps while adhering to cartographic standards and principles.

Assessment 1 - Submission

 

 

Session Ten

23 - 29 September

Lesson Title:

Create Metadata

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task that focuses on creating a metadata statement for an ESRI File Geodatabase, following the ISO standards. The task entails filling in the required metadata fields for all feature classes within the geodatabase, adhering to the specified ISO standards, to provide comprehensive information about the geodatabase and its contents.

Additionally, as part of the session, the student will be expected to answer a knowledge question, demonstrating their understanding of metadata creation and the significance of associated attribute fields.

To ensure the successful completion of the task, the student will receive training on metadata creation and understanding the relevant attribute fields that need to be populated. This training will equip the student with the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately document and describe the ESRI File Geodatabase in compliance with ISO standards.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in creating metadata statements that adhere to ISO standards, showcasing their ability to accurately document geospatial datasets and facilitate effective data management practices.

 

Session Eleven

30 Sep - 06 Oct

Lesson Title:

Finalise and submit project assessment

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task focused on finalizing all documentation, including the restoration of data from backup and ensuring its up-to-date status. Additionally, they will be required to complete the 'Submission of Completed Work' document and upload all necessary materials onto the Canvas platform.

To aid in successfully completing this task, the student will receive training on data restoration from backup and the completion of the 'Submission of Completed Work' document.

This training will equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to efficiently restore data and accurately complete the required documentation.

By adhering to these guidelines, the student will be able to effectively finalize their work, ensuring its comprehensiveness and submission in accordance with the assessment requirements.

By successfully accomplishing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in managing data restoration processes and effectively completing documentation, showcasing their ability to ensure the integrity and submission of their work.

 

 

Session Twelve

07 - 13 Oct

Lesson Title:

Initial meeting and data validation

Description:

During this session, the student will be presented with an assessment task where they will have a meeting with the client to discuss and document the project requirements. The focus will be on understanding the client's needs and expectations for the project.

Additionally, the student will be tasked with downloading and validating the necessary spatial datasets for the project. This will involve using industry-accepted methods to ensure the accuracy and quality of the data. Once validated, the student will be responsible for uploading the datasets into an ESRI File Geodatabase. This step is crucial for organizing and managing the spatial data effectively.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will contribute to the foundation of a well-informed and structured project.

 

 

Session Thirteen

14 - 20 October

Lesson Title:

Capture and edit spatial data using GIS Software

Description:

In this session, the student will be presented with an assessment task that involves subdividing a suburb into two new suburbs and updating the associated attributes using geoprocessing tools and imagery within GIS software. The objective is to demonstrate the student's ability to apply appropriate techniques to modify polygon features and accurately update their attributes.

To ensure the student's success in completing this task, they will receive training specifically focused on editing polygon features. This training will provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively carry out the subdivision process, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the spatial data.

Engaging in this exercise will allow the student to gain practical experience in utilizing geoprocessing tools and imagery within GIS software. It will enhance their proficiency in editing spatial data and reinforce their understanding of the concepts and techniques involved in GIS data manipulation.

By successfully accomplishing this task, the student will showcase their competence in executing spatial subdivision tasks and attribute updates within the given assessment framework.

 

Session Fourteen

21 - 27 October

Lesson Title:

Create Metadata

Description:

During this session, the student will be assigned an assessment task that focuses on creating a metadata statement for an ESRI File Geodatabase, following the ISO standards. The task entails filling in the required metadata fields for all feature classes within the geodatabase, adhering to the specified ISO standards, to provide comprehensive information about the geodatabase and its contents.

Additionally, as part of the session, the student will be expected to answer a knowledge question, demonstrating their understanding of metadata creation and the significance of associated attribute fields.

To ensure the successful completion of the task, the student will receive training on metadata creation and understanding the relevant attribute fields that need to be populated. This training will equip the student with the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately document and describe the ESRI File Geodatabase in compliance with ISO standards.

By successfully completing these tasks, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in creating metadata statements that adhere to ISO standards, showcasing their ability to accurately document geospatial datasets and facilitate effective data management practices.

 Assessment 2

 

Session Fifteen

28 Oct - 03 Nov

 

Lesson Title:

Design and produce map

Description:

During this session, the student will be presented with an assessment task that focuses on producing a precise and accurate map.

The task involves designing, producing, and validating the map while adhering to a checklist and applying cartographic design principles for symbolizing the data.

The student will be required to export the finalized map as an Adobe PDF document and ensure its printed version aligns with the designated map scale by using a scale ruler.

If any issues or discrepancies are identified during the process, the student will be expected to address them accordingly, ensuring the map meets the required standards of accuracy and quality.

By successfully completing this task, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in map production, attention to detail, and ability to apply cartographic principles effectively

 

Assessment 2

 

Session Sixteen

04 - 10 November

 Lesson Title:

Finalise project

Description:

During this session, the student will be presented with an assessment task that involves completing a metadata statement for the ESRI File Geodatabase in accordance with ISO standards, covering all feature classes. Additionally, they will need to finalize the 'Submission of Completed Work' document.

Upon completion, the student will be required to upload the comprehensive portfolio, which includes various components such as the project scope, data Validation Sheet, metadata statement, knowledge questions, and the Submission of Completed Work document.

Furthermore, the student must include the ESRI File Geodatabase and the Adobe PDF map as part of the portfolio submission.

By fulfilling these requirements and submitting the complete portfolio, the student will demonstrate their understanding of metadata standards, meticulous attention to detail, and their ability to organize and present their work effectively. This comprehensive submission will showcase the student's proficiency in completing the assessment tasks and provide a comprehensive overview of their achievements during the assessment.

By successfully completing this task, the student will demonstrate their proficiency in managing metadata, effectively organizing their work, and showcasing their accomplishments.

 

Assessment 2 - Due

 

Session Seventeen

11 - 17 November

Revision and feedback on work completed  

Session Eighteen

18 - 24 November

Assessment marking and finalising results  

 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

All email communications will be sent to your RMIT email address and you must regularly check your RMIT emails.

Students will be able to access course information and learning materials through the Learning Hub and may be provided with additional materials in class. Lists of relevant reference books, resources in the library and accessible Internet sites will be provided where possible. You will also use equipment and software packages in the laboratory for the project work. During the course, you will be directed to websites to enhance your knowledge and understanding of difficult concepts

Check the Library Subject Guides: http://rmit.libguides.com/geospatial


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course is ongoing throughout the semester. Your knowledge and understanding of course content is assessed through participation in class exercises, oral presentations and through the application of learned skills and insights to your written tasks. Full assessment briefs will be provided and can be found on CANVAS. 


Assessment Tasks

Assessment 1: Bundoora West Campus - Topographic Mapping

Assessment 2 New Subdivision - Croydon Hills and Warranwood


Assessment Matrix

Element

Performance criteria

Assessment

      Task 1

Bundoora West Campus Topographic Map

Assessment

Task 2

New Subdivision - Croydon Hills and Warranwood

1. Prepare to create spatial data.

 

 

 

1.1. Confirm project requirements in consultation with appropriate person.

A1

A1

1.2. Determine acceptance levels of data quality required for project in consultation with appropriate person.

A1

A1

1.3. Select data creation methods and resources including source data to meet project requirements.

A1

A1

1.4. Select data validation methods to meet project requirements.

A1

A1

1.5. Comply with legislative requirements, including data privacy, copyright and licensing while undertaking the project.

A2

A2

2. Create spatial data.

2.1. Access required data resources.

B1

B1

2.2. Create spatial data using geographic information system (GIS) application tools.

B3

B3

2.3. Use topological rules to define permissible relationships between features.

B3

B3

2.4. Resolve numerical and topological errors arising through processing.

B3

B3

2.5. Store spatial data according to organisational requirements.

B2, B8

B2, B7

3. Validate spatial data quality.

3.1. Use industry-accepted methods for evaluating the consistency, precision, accuracy and completeness of spatial data according to project specifications.

B1, B3

B1, B3

3.2. Resolve data quality issues in spatial data.

B3

B3

3.3. Identify and record the limitations of the spatial data according to organisational requirements.

B1

B1

4. Prepare metadata statement.

4.1. Document the validated dataset by completing a metadata statement according to organisational requirements.

B4

B4

4.2. Complete and file documentation according to organisational requirements.

B7

B6

4.3. Advise relevant users of the availability of the metadata according to organisational requirements.

B4

B4

 

 

Foundation skills

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

 

 

Performance Evidence 

A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy the requirements below

Assessment

      Task 1

Bundoora West Campus Topographic Map

Assessment

Task 2

New Subdivision - Croydon Hills and Warranwood 

To demonstrate competency a candidate must meet the elements and performance criteria of this unit by creating and validating three spatial datasets comprising the spatial data types of point, line and polygon.

Each of the spatial datasets must incorporate attribute data and use geoprocessing functions of:

  • merge
  • clip
  • dissolve
  • buffer
  • intersect
  • union.

B2, B3, B4

B2, B3

Knowledge Evidence 

To be competent in this unit a candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

Assessment

      Task 1

Bundoora West Campus Topographic Map

Assessment

Task 2

New Subdivision - Croydon Hills and Warranwood 

spatial data quality features

B6

Question 12

 

AS/NZS ISO 19115-1:2015 Geographic information – Metadata Fundamentals:

  • title
  • identifier
  • abstract
  • time
  • responsible party
  • access, use, security
  • status
  • lineage
  • topic category
  • keywords

B6

Question 5

 

key features of spatial reference systems

B6

Question 7

 

geometry and attributes of spatial datasets

B6

Question 8

 

methods for validating spatial datasets

B6

Question 9

 

reliable source of data

B6

Question 12

 

spatial data types

B6

Question 10

 

spatial data capture methodologies

B6

Question 11

 

spatial data formats and structures

B6

Question 10

 

industry-accepted standards relating to validating spatial data

B6

Question 9

 

metadata standard AS/NZS ISO 19115.1:2015 Geographic information – Metadata Fundamentals.

B6

Question 5

 

 

Other Information

Credit Transfer and/or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
You may be eligible for credit towards courses in your program if you have already met the learning/competency outcomes through previous learning and/or industry experience. To be eligible for credit towards a course, you must demonstrate that you have already completed learning and/or gained industry experience that is:

  • Relevant
  • Current
  • Satisfies the learning/competency outcomes of the course

Please refer to http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit to find more information about credit transfer and RPL.
 

Study Support: 
Study Support provides free learning and academic development advice to you. 
Services offered by Study Support to support your numeracy and literacy skills are: 

  • assignment writing, thesis writing and study skills advice
  • maths and science developmental support and advice
  • English language development 

    Please Refer https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support to find more information about Study and learning Support

 

Equitable Learning Services (ELS):

If you are suffering from long-term medical condition or disability, you should contact Equitable Learning Services (ELS) to seek advice and support to complete your studies.
Please refer to https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/support-and-facilities/student-support/equitable-learning-services to find more information about services offered by Equitable Learning Services (ELS).

Late submission: 
If you require an Extension of Submittable Work (assignments, reports or project work etc.) for 7 calendar days or less (from the original due date) and have valid reasons, you must complete and lodge an Application for Extension of Submittable Work (7 Calendar Days or less) form and lodge it with the Senior Educator/ Program Manager. 
The application must be lodged no later than one working day before the official due date. You will be notified within no more than 2 working days of the date of lodgement as to whether the extension has been granted. 
If you seek an Extension of Submittable Work for more than 7 calendar days (from the original due date) must lodge an Application for Special Consideration form under the provisions of the Special Consideration Policy, preferably prior to, but no later than 2 working days after the official due date. 

Submittable Work (assignments, reports or project work etc.) submitted late without approval of an extension will not be accepted or marked. 

Special consideration: 
Please Refer https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/special-consideration to find more information about special consideration 

Academic Integrity: 
"Academic integrity means acting with the values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility in learning, teaching and research."

It means referencing the work of others while developing your own insights, knowledge and ideas.

 

Breaches of academic integrity include:

  • plagiarism and failure to correctly acknowledge sources
  • contract cheating or paying/getting another person to prepare an assignment
  • submitting work prepared by another person
  • copying other people’s work
  • cheating in exams
  • breaching the Research Code
  • using unauthorised materials or devices

Please Refer: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity to find more information about plagiarism. 

All email communications will be sent to your RMIT email address and you must regularly check your RMIT emails.

Students will be able to access course information and learning materials through the Learning Hub and may be provided with additional materials in class. Lists of relevant reference books, resources in the library and accessible Internet sites will be provided where possible. You will also use equipment and software packages in the laboratory for the project work. During the course, you will be directed to websites to enhance your knowledge and understanding of difficult concepts

Check the Library Subject Guides: http://rmit.libguides.com/geospatial

Course Overview: Access Course Overview