COMPUTER-PROGRAMMING IN A SPATIAL-ANALYSIS COURSE

We find that students taking spatial analysis courses have a fair knowledge of the use of computer software packages, but usually lack basic computer programming skills. This article sets out a sequence of four exercises of increasing difficulty which students can program using languages such as BASIC or dBASE. We also describe several spatial analysis course projects in which students developed their own computer code. Incorporating computer programming exercises in a spatial analysis course helps students to 1) come to terms with the complexity of the material, 2) clarify concepts, 3) understand the rationale behind calculations, 4) use their creative energies, and 5) gain confidence in their computer and mathematical skills.