Geographical Data Analysis

It is increasingly important for the earth science student to appreciate that the acquisition of skills in statistics and computerised data analysis is as much part of modern geography as work in the field, laboratory or library. In this respect, Geographical Data Analysis aims to link the use of statistical techniques by means of computer software, to the acquisition of geographical-knowledge and the scientific method of enquiry. The book has three objectives: to explain basic statistical techniques and demonstrate their application to quantitative geography; to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for carrying out research projects; and to make the link between statistical analysis and the substantive topics taught as part of a geography course. An important innovative feature of the book is its project-orientated approach, which utilises exemplar projects drawn from human and physical geography. Each exemplar project shows the progress from the conception of the initial research through to the formulation of tentative hypotheses and the subsequent statistical analysis. The projects exemplify both primary and secondary methods for collecting geographical data, with the computer-based application of a wide range of statistical techniques. Thus, these projects allow discussion of sample design, data collection and computerisation, and a selection of appropriate statistical techniques. As such, Geographical Data Analysis integrates quantitative and geographical methodologies and provides a thorough understanding of basic statistical techniques for the undergraduate geography student; it will be of use from first year through to final degree dissertations.

Nigel Walford has taught Geographical Information Systems courses at Kingston University for 12 years and previously worked in the Data Archive at Essex University. He graduated from the University of Sussex and did his postgraduate work at the University of London. His thematic research interests relate mainly to rural issues and include agriculture, land use planning and population. Recent book publications include Geographical Data Analysis and Reshaping the Countryside: Perceptions and Processes of Rural Change as well as several journal articles in Health and Place, Geography, Planning Practice and Research, Applied Geography and International Journal of Population Geography.