Learn to analyze, model, and visualize spatial data using modern R-based geospatial tools.
Welcome to Applied Spatial Analysis and Research (YH00EM30) — a hands‑on course designed for students interested in geospatial modelling, spatial data science, and applied statistical research. The course focuses on practical skills for working with spatial datasets in R and interpreting results in real‑world contexts.
This course is based on the official University of Eastern Finland course curriculum.
📌 Course Overview
This course deepens your methodological skills in handling GIS data, spatial statistics, and applied modelling. Methods are demonstrated using real datasets from economic and social geography.
The teaching includes lectures, demonstrations, and hands‑on practicals.
You will learn to:
- Use spatial statistics software for data preparation and modeling
- Understand concepts of spatial data, spatial relationships, and geospatial data structures
- Apply regression methods (non-parametric, multivariate, spatial)
- Perform data mining and work with large datasets (Paavo, YKR, etc.)
- Create meaningful visualizations and interpret spatial models
🎯 Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, you will be able to:
- Prepare and manipulate spatial datasets using R
- Implement a range of spatial statistical models
- Visualize spatial patterns and model outcomes
- Interpret results for evidence-based decision-making
- Understand real-world spatial problems through geospatial modelling
👥 Who Is This Course For?
Students with basic experience in spatial data and statistical methods who want to strengthen their analytical and geospatial modelling skills. Ideal before starting a Master’s thesis in geography, environmental policy, or related fields.
📅 Course Structure (Weeks)
🗂️ Course Materials in This Website
This website includes:
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Lectures — detailed weekly materials
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Assignments — exercises with data and instructions
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Articles — extended tutorials and examples
- Reference — documentation of helper functions used in the course
Use the navigation bar at the top to explore all content.
📚 Recommended Literature
- Brunsdon, C. & Comber, L. (2015). An Introduction to R for Spatial Analysis and Mapping.
- Bivand, R., Pebesma, E., & Gómez‑Rubio, V. (2008). Applied Spatial Data Analysis with R.
🔗 Official UEF Course Information
For registration, schedules, and formal details, visit the official course page:
👉 YH00EM30 – Applied Spatial Analysis and Research