What This Document Is
This is a peer review assessment for an advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) project undertaken within an upper-level undergraduate course at Western Washington University. Specifically, it provides detailed feedback on a project focused on mapping residential development within the city of Kent, Washington, intended for public access. The assessment offers constructive criticism on various aspects of the project, from initial conceptualization and background research to methodological choices and preliminary map design. It represents a critical evaluation of a student’s work by a fellow student, offering insights into project strengths and areas for improvement.
Why This Document Matters
This type of document is invaluable for students undertaking similar GIS projects, particularly those involving urban planning, data visualization, and public-facing map creation. It’s beneficial for anyone seeking to understand the criteria used to evaluate advanced GIS work, and can serve as a model for providing and receiving constructive feedback. Students preparing to present their GIS projects, or those involved in peer review processes, will find this particularly useful. It’s also helpful for instructors looking for examples of detailed student assessments.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This assessment is focused on *one specific* project – mapping residential development in Kent, Washington. While the feedback is broadly applicable to GIS projects, it doesn’t offer generalized solutions or step-by-step instructions for GIS techniques. It doesn’t contain the original project itself, nor does it provide the final, revised version. The feedback is specific to the stage of the project reviewed and doesn’t cover all potential GIS challenges. It’s a snapshot of a single evaluation, and shouldn’t be considered a comprehensive guide to GIS best practices.
What This Document Provides
* Evaluative commentary on the project’s background and literature review.
* Feedback regarding the clarity and feasibility of project objectives.
* Critique of preliminary map design elements, including visual balance and labeling.
* Assessment of data collection and processing methodologies.
* Suggestions for improving data flow diagrams and visual representations of processes.
* Observations on the integration of different software applications within the project workflow.
* Overall project assessment and potential impact of the work.
