GIS Models:Classification Scheme

Question 1

Classification of GIS spatial models

Answer 1

descriptive or prescriptive
deterministic or stochastic
static or dynamic
deductive or inductive

Question 2

Descriptive models

Answer 2

describes existing conditions
describe parts or all of a study
passive

Question 3

Descriptive model example

Answer 3

New toll road close to harrismith via EIA

investigate soil moisture

Question 4

Prescriptive models

Answer 4

predicts what conditions should be
prescribe best solutions
active

Question 5

Prescriptive model example

Answer 5

Soil Erosion via RUSLE

Question 6

Deterministic models

Answer 6

Assumes a variable to have unique values

one output for given input

Question 7

Deterministic model example

Answer 7

SWAT

Question 8

Stochastic models

Answer 8

assumes variables to follow some probability
distributions
range of possible outcomes from given input
conditional probability with fixed temporal or spatial extent
reflects randomness or uncertainty in system