Читать книгу GIS Research Methods - Steven J. Steinberg - Страница 39

Developing the ability to integrate different forms of data is essential to conducting good research. Developing this ability is about seeing the connections, themes, and patterns in the data and tying the various parts together. A good researcher will seek to develop an understanding of the complete picture of the issue under study, while also being keenly aware of the parts that compose the whole. A good researcher has creativity, vision, and patience, which describes in essence the ability to think spatially.

Spatial thinking is especially valuable to the research process because it enables you to visualize, communicate, and implement based on a unique and integrated research process. The spatial perspective allows you to contextualize the problem you are studying, to integrate different forms of data, and to develop a holistic understanding of the particular issue you are considering. Integrating GIS into research methods is natural in our increasingly interconnected world.