GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is little doubt that geographical information systems (GIS) are impacting society and the discipline of geography profoundly. The nature and force of these changes are shaping the ways in which society views, values and uses spatial information in decision-making processes. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the latest developments in GIS, and to assess the influence of these trends on the sub-discipline in South Africa. Although the situation in South Africa is similar to that in the rest of the world, differences in local conditions, influences, role players and power relations may affect future development trajectories of geography and GISience in particular ways. Major initiatives in the public and private sectors are presently underway that are driving GIS developments locally. Special attention will be devoted to the educational situation and how it is evolving.