Spatial Analysis ─ Statistics, Visualization, and Computational Methods

This book provides a concept-based problem-solving learning approach to mastering practical spatial analysis tasks. It draws from statistics, spatial statistics, visualization, and computational methods with the overall objective of supporting the growing field of geographic information science (GIS). The book introduces spatial concepts together with a series of helpful hands-on computer-based GIS exercises for studying and quantifying spatial patterns, distributions, and relationships.

Dr. Tonny J. Oyana received his Ph.D and his postdoctoral training from the University of Buffalo, New York, USA. He is currently the director of spatial analytics and informatics, Research Center for Health Disparities, Equity, and the Exposome; and a professor of spatial information systems in the Department of Preventive Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Knoxville, USA. His research focuses on establishing the relationship between environmental health and exposure; advancing GIS methods, algorithm design, and spatial analytical methods; and understanding the factors that contribute toward land systems change. In addition, he has authored more than 80 scientific works.

Dr. Florence M. Margai (now deceased) was a professor in the Department of Geography at Binghamton University, New York, USA, where she taught courses that reflected her areas of specialization: advanced statistics, environmental health hazards, health disparities, and environmental analysis using geospatial and visualization technologies. She also served as the associate dean of Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, Vestal, New York, USA. Margai obtained her Ph.D from Kent State University, Ohio, USA, and worked with nonprofit organizations to assist in the geographic targeting of vulnerable population groups for disease intervention and health promotional campaigns, sustainability, and capacity development initiatives.