Over time CSISS will develop a knowledgebase of answers
to frequently asked questions, hints, software advice,
etc. Below are some common inquiries:
What
is spatially integrated social science?
CSISS recognizes the key role space plays in human
society, and promotes research that advances our understanding
of spatial patterns and processes. Cartographic visualization,
geographic information systems (GIS), pattern recognition,
spatially sensitive statistical analysis, and place-based
search methodologies are the tools of spatially integrated
social science (SISS) used to integrate knowledge
across disciplines and paradigms. From research design
to the interpretation of research findings, the use
of SISS can advance understanding in nearly every
domain of the social and behavioral sciences.
For more information see: Spatial
Social Science 
PDF, 320 kb
What
is the CSISS perspective on spatially integrated social
science?
CSISS views space as integrating social processes
and sees social science problems as processes in place.
CSISS uses GIS to integrate data by location and also
uses spatial analysis to integrate multi-discipline
views.
What
do social scientists want from CSISS?
CSISS can provide several things for social scientists
including: 1) Guidance on data resources and tools
for analysis. 2) Examples of evolving practice in
spatial thinking and analysis. 3) Resources for learning
and applying spatial analysis in their disciplines.
What
does CSISS need from social scientists?
Social scientists can provide CSISS with several things:
1) Identification of CSISS Classics
from their respective disciplines. 2) Syllabi
for courses on spatial perspectives in their disciplines.
3) Suggestions of topics for workshops and specialist
meetings. 4) Offers to host CSISS presentations at
disciplinary conferences and research workshops.
What
general spatial analytic approaches does CSISS see
as appropriate for the social sciences?
CSISS recognizes the following spatial analytic approaches
as appropriate:
- Spatial Econometrics
- Geographic Information Systems
- Map Making & Visualization
- Spatial Simulation & Spatial-Temporal Dynamics
- Spatial Optimization & Spatial Interaction Modeling
- Remote Sensing
What
are some examples of social science infrastructure?
The National
Science Foundation sees infrastructure as enhancing
shared resources for research and learning. Examples
include:
- Data and Tools
- Human Resources - Training & Education
- Communcation - Linkages, Networks and Collaboration
- Outreach - Accessibility and Dissemination
