The Spatial Distribution Pattern of Rural Settlements Center in Al- Balqa Governorate/Jordan

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the spatial distribution pattern of rural settlements center Al Balqa Governorate in Jordan. In addition, it aim to determine the shape of the its spatial expansion, and to demonstrate its actual and predicted weight center, as well as its median,, using spatial statistical methods related to study and by analyzing the average Nearest Neighbor technique. . This study concluded that, the rural settlements within the study area reflects the relationship of between the humans and their environment and how the environmental factors or determinants control the spatial distribution pattern of these settlements, in terms of its spread and sizes. The spatial distribution pattern of settlements appear to be very close one to another , and the center of those settlements located in the center of the study area and the distribution takes the oval shape extends towards the north-east of the governorate. The study results showed the necessity of classification for the settlements and developments and building new planning standards that fit with the local situation. The study, however, recommends building a comprehensive database and using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) by the authorities involved in planning for human settlements. Key words: Spatial distribution, rural settlement, Al Balqa Governorate, GIS, Jordan.