1. Computer Literacy :  knowledge of bits and bytes, memory and storage,
binary and ASCII files, etc.

2. Understanding of disk operating systems :  files and hierarchical directory
structures.  If you understand DOS or UNIX, you'll be fine.

3. Computer Programming :  understanding of basic program structures (loops,
conditionals, variables & arrays, subroutines/procedures/functions).  Purpose
in this requirement is the following:

a. aptitude : success in learning a programming language is the best predictor
for success in GIS, as I've seen in teaching the course with various
prerequisites over the last 7 years.

b. knowledge of boolean logic : very key to GIS analysis, also used in
computer programming (conditionals).

c. preparation for programming project in GIS : though we will not use any
general programming languages, knowing one makes it easy to learn AML (Arc
Macro Language) which we will use.

d. as a necessary complement to GIS skills for future applications and
employment.  GIS tools don't do everything.  Many tasks are best solved using
a regular computer programming language.  Employers *much* prefer GIS
professionals proficient in a language.  They tend to prefer "serious"
languages such as C and FORTRAN, but these are not required for this course.


I hope this helps.  Can you tell me where you fit in, regarding these
considerations?

Jerry