The GISc Glossary

Explore all of the aspects of a GISc with our Kent State University GIS glossary. Read more here!

Helping You Articulate Geographic Information Science

A definition. For all practical purposes, it’s the concise explanation of an element or experience. However, the true value of a definition extends far beyond this. What it also provides is the foundation for further knowledge—and this is critically important.

While it may sound self-explanatory, it’s vital to remember the definitions that live at the heart of any subject are the basis upon which one can build their ability.

With this in mind, we’re providing those interested in geographic information sciences (GISc) with a glossary of terms that can help them build a foundation of understanding in the field. In part one, letters A through E were explored, and in part two, letters F through J.

Now, as the middle of the alphabet is covered, you may be able to start making connections between certain terms and see how they are interconnected within the world of GISc.

Infographic of the ABCs of GISc

As technology continues to progress and change, so does the language surrounding it. Essentially, that means the GISc dictionary is not static—it’s a constantly evolving entity. The terms in this series are meant to provide a starting point for those looking to join the GISc conversation. So, take these and build on them as you go!

If you’re invested in discovering more about GISc, don’t wait idly by for the next glossary installment—learn more about what it takes to work in the field, or check out some of what’s going on in the industry now.

The editorial team at Kent State Online is composed of dedicated professionals with expertise in higher education, digital marketing, and content strategy. Our mission is to create insightful, engaging, and informative content that empowers prospective students to make informed decisions about advancing their education and careers.
This program is not currently accepting new students. Please visit our program listing to explore additional graduate programs available at Kent State.
Latest Blogs
User experience design (UXD) lets you use your creativity, research skills and technological expertise to shape how others view the world. If you want to excel at building your UX resume, be prepared to impress employers with new ways to solve problems. You also need a skill set that’s grounded in UX fundamentals, yet shows synergistic capability.
There are many reasons to choose to pursue a career in the public sector rather than in the business world. Often, people are drawn to public or nonprofit careers because doing so gives them an opportunity to do good and enact change for the better, rather than just increasing profits for a corporation. But even if you know you want to work in government or at a nonprofit organization, the exact path you follow can vary greatly.
If you’re researching either geographic information systems or geographic information science, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish one from the other. Although geographic information science is often confused with geographic information systems, and the two terms are closely related, they are not perfectly interchangeable.1
Explore Our Online Programs
Online Minors
Online Non-Degree Graduate Licensure Programs
Get Started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Center for Adult Veteran Services
Approximately 1,500 international students from 100 countries are enrolled at Kent State University. We’re excited to have you join us, and our international admission team is here to help you every step of the way.
About Kent State Online
Contact Us
Contact Us