Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Science Technology Program at Southwestern College

该项目的主要目标是建立一个地理信息系统（GIS）科学技术的综合项目。地理信息系统是一门致力于空间分析、研究和批判性研究我们世界的各个方面的学科，它使用创新的工具和技术来组织和显示大量的特定地点数据。由于圣地亚哥县是大量利用GIS技术的公司的所在地，因此在该县的劳动力中存在着对受过GIS软件和硬件理论和使用培训的人员的重大需求，特别是在空间分析应用方面。地理信息系统技术计划正在促进迫切需要的学习者社区的智力发展。将现实世界，与学科相关的关键主题和GIS行业标准纳入现有课程，并实施四门新课程是该计划的核心。利用最先进的硬件和软件，该项目还开展了以下活动：1)为大学和高中教师举办专业发展讲习班；2)安排学生参加本科研究项目和学士学位课程；3)安排学生进行专业带薪实习；4) GIS专业人才培训。地理信息系统技术项目是整个校园各学科教师之间的合作成果。由于少数民族学生的入学率超过80%，该项目也为向代表性不足的学生提供有市场价值的地理信息系统技能做出了重大贡献。

The primary goal of this project is establishing a comprehensive program in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Science Technology. GIS is a discipline that endeavors to spatially analyze, study, and critically research aspects of our world with the use of innovative tools and techniques that organize and display large amounts of site-specific data. Because San Diego County is home to a large number of companies that utilize GIS Technology, a significant need exists within the workforce of the County for personnel trained in the theory and use of GIS software and hardware, particularly for spatial analysis applications. The GIS Technology program is promoting the intellectual development of a community of learners in desperate need. Incorporation of real-world, discipline related critical topics and GIS industrial standards into existing courses, and the implementation of four new courses is at the core of the program. Using state-of-the-art hardware and software, the project is also conducting the following activities: 1) Professional development workshops for college and high school faculty; 2) Placement of students in undergraduate research projects and baccalaureate programs; 3) Placement of students in professional, paid internships; and 4) GIS training for professionals in need. The GIS Technology program is a collaborative effort among faculty from disciplinary divisions across the campus. With a student enrollment of greater than 80% ethnic minorities, this project is also making a significant contribution to bringing marketable GIS skills to underrepresented students.