Jon Fairburn

The areas of geography I am interested in include environment, politics, the use of the Internet for geography and geographic information systems (GIS).
Geographic information systems are computer programmes that can produce maps, and more importantly help to analyse the data on the map. GIS have many applications for example:

• superstore chains use them to decide where to site new supermarkets and gas, water and electricity companies use them to maintain their networks or pipes and cables

I am currently involved with two projects using GIS. The first is modelling a water catchment to help site small scale reservoirs - these could provide another water source for farmers and may help prevent flooding. The second project is concerned with peoples fear of crime in Stoke on Trent.

I studied for my first degree at what was then Coventry Polytechnic and completed my MSc. at Keele University, I have also taught geography at Kindrogan Field Centre in Perthshire, Scotland.

An interesting web site for you to explore can be found at

http://uk.multimap.com/map/places.cgi

Division of Geography
Mellor Building
Staffordshire University
College Road
Stoke on Trent
ST4 2DE
Tel: 01782 294018
http://www.staffs.ac.uk/geography/