By Shahabuddin Amerudin
Geographic Information System (GIS) software systems are constantly evolving and incorporating new technologies and concepts. To succeed in this field, students studying GIS software systems must not only possess the basic skills and competencies but also be familiar with emerging technologies and concepts. In this article, we will discuss some of the technologies and concepts that students should be familiar with to keep up with the rapidly evolving GIS industry.
Cloud Computing
Many GIS applications now use cloud-based infrastructure, such as Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure. Cloud computing provides a scalable and flexible infrastructure for GIS applications, making it easier to store, analyze, and share spatial data. Students should have a basic understanding of cloud computing concepts such as virtualization, containers, and cloud storage. They should also be familiar with the various cloud platforms and their capabilities and limitations when it comes to GIS applications.
Mobile Computing
Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are increasingly being used for GIS applications, including field data collection and real-time tracking. Familiarity with mobile computing technologies can be beneficial for students studying GIS software systems. Students should have a good understanding of mobile operating systems such as Android and iOS and the GIS applications available on these platforms. Additionally, students should be familiar with the different sensors available on mobile devices, such as GPS and accelerometers, and how they can be used in GIS applications.
Big Data
GIS often deals with large amounts of spatial data, which can be difficult to manage and analyze using traditional methods. Knowledge of big data technologies such as Hadoop and Spark can be helpful for students studying GIS software systems. Students should be able to understand the concepts of distributed computing, parallel processing, and data partitioning. They should also be familiar with big data tools such as HDFS, Hive, and Pig, and how they can be used for storing and processing large amounts of spatial data.
Machine Learning
Machine learning algorithms are being used to analyze and extract insights from GIS data. Familiarity with machine learning concepts and tools such as TensorFlow or Scikit-learn can be beneficial for students studying GIS software systems. Students should be able to understand the concepts of supervised and unsupervised learning, regression, clustering, and classification. They should also be familiar with the various machine learning algorithms used in GIS applications, such as decision trees, neural networks, and support vector machines.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The IoT refers to the growing network of connected devices that are collecting and transmitting data. In GIS, IoT devices can be used for real-time monitoring and data collection. Understanding IoT technologies can be helpful for students studying GIS software systems. Students should be able to understand the concepts of sensors, actuators, and embedded systems. They should also be familiar with the different communication protocols used in IoT devices, such as MQTT, CoAP, and HTTP.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual and augmented reality technologies are increasingly being used in GIS applications, such as 3D visualization and immersive training environments. Familiarity with virtual and augmented reality concepts and tools can be beneficial for students studying GIS software systems. Students should be able to understand the concepts of virtual environments, virtual reality devices, and augmented reality devices. They should also be familiar with the various software tools available for creating virtual and augmented reality GIS applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping up-to-date with emerging technologies and concepts is essential for students studying GIS software systems. Cloud computing, mobile computing, big data, machine learning, IoT, and virtual and augmented reality are some of the emerging technologies and concepts that students should be familiar with to succeed in this field. By staying current with these technologies and concepts, students will be better equipped to use GIS software systems to their full potential and keep pace with the rapidly evolving GIS industry.
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). Requirements for Students Studying GIS Software Systems: Emerging Technologies and Concepts. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6163 (Accessed: 28 March 2023).
