Peer Review

Introduction to the Use of Geographic Information Systems in Public Health

Material Detail page

Reviewed:: Jul 27, 2013 by Health Sciences

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Ratings

Overall Rating:

Content Quality:

Effectiveness:

Ease of Use:

Overview:

This presentation provides a succinct overview of geographic information systems (GIS) terminology as it relates to public health and then gives a detailed overview of the uses of GIS and GIS software in the practice of public health.

Type of Material:

Lecture/Presentation

Recommended Uses:

This presentation provides an accessible overview of basic GIS concepts and their application within public health. The presentation would benefit students with public health background but with little or no knowledge of GIS.

Technical Requirements:

Technical requirements include a computer, with Internet access, and a web browser. Separate original PowerPoint presentation is also available; if viewer wishes to use that format, then PowerPoint software is required. However, basic web browser provides the same level of interaction with the presentation material.

Identify Major Learning Goals:

As stated by the author:

Develop awareness of the basic capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Public Health.
Understand basic concepts associated with GIS software.
Understand specific ways in which GIS can be used in Public Health.
Develop familiarity with terminology related to GIS.
Understand issues related to privacy and confidentiality of records using in GIS software and maps which are produced by GIS software.

Performance objectives:

Determine whether a particular study would benefit from GIS as a tool.
Determine the need for a data security method to be applied to a published map created with GIS software.

Target Student Population:

The target population includes advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals with interest or background in public health.

Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:

Pre-requisites include basic computing skills and some background in public health concepts are needed to get the full benefit of the tutorial.

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:: The content is very comprehensive in describing the use of GIS in health care practice.
Concerns:: On the final slide of presentation, information related to specific software is somewhat dated (last updated in 2000)in that company names and some version information has changed. Overall, though, information within the presentation is still valid.

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:: This presentation would be very effective in introducing GIS novices and/or individuals without prior understanding of the issue to the usefulness of GIS in the practice of public health.
Concerns:: The material has not been updated since 2000.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:: This presentation is very accessible, both technology-wise (can be viewed through basic web browser or through presentation software without need for sound, Java, etc.) and textually. Information is presented clearly and in sufficient detail.
Concerns:: None.

Other Issues and Comments:: This is an excellent source to teach students in health care to use GIS mapping techniques.
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