Examination and Study Questions for Managing Error

Essay Questions

Short Answer

Multiple-choice

Click here to review Lecture and Discussion Notes

1. Essay Questions

Limit each essay to two double-spaced typewritten pages plus references.

1. How can sensitivity analysis be used to judge the level of precision and accuracy required to meet the needs of a GIS application?

2. How can sensitivity analysis be used to control the size of a GIS database?

2. Short Answer

Limit your answers to no more than 100 words.

1. How is sensitivity analysis used to calibrate a dataset?

2. What is meant by a "pedigree" for data and why is it important to understanding the quality of spatial databases?

3. What is the difference between "propagation of error" and "cascading of error"? Give examples.

4. In managing error in a GIS why is it so important to set standards for both procedures and products?

5. Why is sensitivity analysis so important to the creation of a successful GIS?

3. Multiple-choice questions

Choose the best or most appropriate answer(s to the question.

1. When an error in a dataset leads to the commission of another error this is called:
   1. false precision
   2. propagation
   3. spawning
   4. horizontal error
   5. cascading
   6. breeding

2. Which of the following statements about accuracy and precision are true:
   1. Conceptual accuracy means employing the correct database model to represent a real-world feature or event
   2. False precision applies only to positional accuracy
   3. Measures of attribute accuracy vary depending upon the level of measurement of the attribute
   4. Cohen's Kappa is one measure of positional accuracy

3. Which of the following principles apply to the management of error in GIS databases?
   1. set standards for procedure and products
   2. employ precise data
   3. test to see whether standards are being set
   4. report findings in terms of absolute values
   5. employ sensitivity analysis to calibrate solutions

4. Sensitivity analysis can be used to:
   1. assess the effects of accuracy on a GIS solution
   2. assess the effects of precision on a GIS solution
   3. calibrate a GIS dataset
   4. assess correlation between attribute and spatial data
   5. estimate the time required to complete a GIS project

Return to list of topics

Return to Geographer's Craft Homepage