Employing digitization and spatial analysis tools in GIS to manage educational institutions: The College of Engineering at Mustansiriya University as a case study

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are one of the most important tools for organizing the development of integrated spatial databases for educational institutions. These databases support infrastructure analysis, resource management, expansion planning, and improve planning and decision-making efficiency. Therefore, this research aims to use corrected satellite imagery to produce an integrated digital map of the study area (College of Engineering/Al-Mustansiriya University) within a GIS environment. This map will then be linked to an integrated database and spatial analysis will be conducted on this data. Field surveys will be used to collect the database for each department within the College of Engineering. This data will be linked to its geographic location on the digital map. Spatial analyses will be conducted to arrive at the final results, which will serve as an integrated database for department management and forecasting future plans for expansion of faculty, students, and staff. This analysis will also produce multiple strategies for decision-making regarding the required number of undergraduate, graduate, and evening students, and linking these numbers to the facilities, laboratories, and infrastructure that will accommodate the acceptable number of students.