Geographical Information Systems - Part 1 from Coursera

This course is organized into two parts presenting the theoretical and practical foundations of geographic information systems (GIS).

- Together theses courses constitute an introduction to GIS and require no prior knowledge.

- By following this introduction to GIS you will quickly acquire the basic knowledge required to create spatial databases and produce high-quality maps and cartographic representations.

- This is a practical course and is based on free, open-source software, including QGIS.

If you study or work in the fields of land management or the analysis of geographically distributed objects such as land use planning, biology, public health, ecology, or energy, then this course is for you!

In this first part of the course, we will focus on the digitization and the storage of geodata. In particular, you will learn:

- To characterize spatial objects and/or phenomena (territory modeling) with respect to their position in space (through coordinate systems, projections, and spatial relationships) and according to their intrinsic nature (object/vector mode vs. Image/raster mode);

- About the different means used to acquire spatial data; including direct measurement, georeferencing images, digitization, existing data source, etc.);

- About the different ways in which geodata can be stored - notably, files and relational databases;

- How to use data modeling tools to describe and create a spatial database;

- To query and analyze data using SQL, a common data manipulation language.

The second part of this course will focus on methods of spatial analysis and geodata representation. In this section, you will learn:

- How to describe and quantify the spatial properties of discrete variables, for example through spatial autocorrelation;

- To work with continuous variables. In particular, we will look at sampling strategies, how to construct contour lines and isovalue curves, and we will explore different interpolation methods;

- To use digital elevation models and create their derivative products (i.e. slope, orientation);

- How to evaluate the interaction between different types of geodata through overlay and interaction techniques;

- How to create effective maps based around the rules of graphic semiology;

- Finally, we will also explore other, increasingly common, forms of spatial representation such as interactive web-mapping and 3D representations.

You can find an interactive forum for course participants on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/moocsig

What's inside

Syllabus

Digitization – Territorial Modeling: Spatial elements and the characteristics

This first week deals with the first step in digitizing terrain, namely territorial modeling. In this week, we will consider factors such as the scale and theme of interest in order to determine which objects or spatial phenomena should included in the model, and we will also see how the geographic positioning and intrinsic nature (e.g. raster or vector) of these elements factors into how they are characterized in a terrain model.

Digitization - Geodata Capture and Documentation

Digital data acquisition involves various techniques including the direct measurement of primary data, the semi-automated vectorization and digitization of spatial objects, or the georeferencing of digital images. In this week’s module we will begin with a lesson on metadata in which we will discuss the processes and rules for documenting a dataset, which are essential for data sustainability, and we will also introduce a case study on participatory GIS in Senegal and Seychelles.

Digitization - Automated Capture and Use of Existing Geodata

In this week we will continue to build on the topic introduced last week with automatic vectorization, and we will also review a non-exhaustive list of some important pre-existent data sources that are available for you to access. We will finish with a case study of a Senegal-Mauritania biodiversity project before you will test your knowledge in the first quiz of the module.

Storage - Geodata Structure and Organization

In this 4th week, which marks the beginning of the second module of the course devoted to data storage, we begin by reviewing the fundamental aspects of geodata storage and the most common data formats, before tackling the theme of relational databases and data modeling. The week concludes with a lesson on creating databases in the QGIS environment and a case study on the role of GIS in a transport and urban planning project in Senegal.

Storage - Data Management with SQL

The SQL language is the preferred vector for access to relational databases, and can be used to search for data meeting certain criteria (conditional queries), to aggregate and calculate statistics on subsets of data (aggregation queries), to combine the results of several queries (nesting and merging), to edit and modify data, or even to manipulate data structure (DDL, DML).

Storage - Spatial SQL and NoSQL Databases

While the previous week's lessons dealt with various general aspects of the SQL language, in this week we will learn about SQL queries specifically related to the spatial dimensions and the relationships that characterize geodata (geometric and topological spatial queries). We will also present a brief introduction into the rapidly expanding field of noSQL databases and finish the lesson portion of this module with a case study devoted to bushfire management in sub-Saharan Africa. Finally, this first MOOC on an introduction to geographic information systems will conclude with a second quiz to test your knowledge.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores geographic information systems, which is a core concept in land management fields

Examines geodata representation, a highly relevant topic in data science

Teaches core concepts in GIS, which could help you develop your career

Taught by Stéphane Joost, Fernand Koffi Kouamé, Amadou Sall, and Marc Soutter, who are recognized for their work in GIS

Teaches spatial analysis methods, a critical skill for data scientists

Builds a foundation in GIS, which is useful for personal growth

Reviews summary

Introduces gis concepts

According to students, the "Geographical Information Systems - Part 1" course features informative lectures that help learners understand the fundamentals of GIS. While the course content is considered valuable, some students found the quizzes and assignments to be challenging due to language translation and formatting issues. Despite these drawbacks, those taking the course found it to be helpful in developing a basic understanding of GIS.

Course content is thorough and relevant.

"Very informative course on open source software like GIS and SQL."

"The content of the course is really good."

"I learned a lot and the content is very relevant to the subject."

Course support may not be responsive.

"I wrote on the course discussion forum to get some advice, unfortunately I am yet to hear a response."

"looking at older posts, this question has been asked previously to no response"

English translations impact comprehension.

"Very informative course (...) It was difficult to understand at first due to the language and translation in the slides."

"If you are not a native French speaker, the translations to English can be a little jarring and confusing at times."

"this course is translated to English, there are unusual pauses in sentences and the constant flow of speaking makes monotonous and hard to grasp the sense of the sentences."

Quizzes can be frustrating due to vague questions and strict formatting.

"The quizzes will surely drive you mad."

"The questions are made as vague as possible and the checking system checks only the text."

"The quizzes that are currently on the course could be better formatted."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Geographical Information Systems - Part 1 with these activities:

Review basic data structures and algorithms in programming

Show steps

Refresh your knowledge of basic data structures and algorithms to strengthen your programming skills and enhance your understanding of GIS concepts.

Browse courses on Data Structures

Show steps

Review online resources or textbooks on data structures and algorithms.
Practice implementing these structures and algorithms in a programming language.
Solve coding problems using the appropriate data structures and algorithms.

Form study groups and engage in peer discussions

Show steps

Enhance your learning experience by joining or forming study groups to discuss course materials, share insights, and support each other's progress.

Show steps

Find or create a study group with other learners.
Set regular meeting times and define group goals.
Prepare for each session by reviewing course materials and identifying questions or areas for discussion.
Participate actively in discussions, sharing your perspectives and insights.

Explore ArcGIS Online tutorials

Show steps

Expand your GIS skills by exploring ArcGIS Online tutorials, providing practical experience and reinforcing concepts covered in the course.

Show steps

Identify relevant tutorials based on course topics.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, practicing geospatial operations.
Apply the learned techniques to create your own maps and data visualizations.
Share your findings and discuss your experiences with other learners.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Enhance your spatial analysis skills through exercises

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of spatial analysis concepts by solving exercises and applying techniques covered in the course.

Browse courses on Spatial Analysis

Show steps

Review the course materials on spatial analysis methods.
Practice applying these methods through online exercises or interactive platforms.
Analyze real-world geospatial data to solve practical problems.
Share your solutions and insights with other learners.

Create a personal geospatial data collection system

Show steps

Build your own geospatial data collection system to enhance your understanding of data acquisition techniques and strengthen your practical skills.

Show steps

Identify the purpose and scope of your data collection system.
Research and select appropriate data collection methods.
Design and implement a data collection protocol.
Collect and organize the geospatial data.
Validate and analyze the collected data.

Compile a portfolio of your geospatial projects

Show steps

Showcase your geospatial skills and knowledge by creating a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to apply concepts covered in the course.

Browse courses on Spatial Analysis

Show steps

Select your best geospatial projects that represent different aspects of the course.
Document your projects with clear descriptions and explanations.
Create a visually appealing and well-organized portfolio.
Share your portfolio with potential employers or clients.

Contribute to the QGIS project

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of GIS software and contribute to the open-source community by participating in the QGIS project.

Browse courses on QGIS

Show steps

Familiarize yourself with the QGIS codebase and development process.
Identify areas where you can contribute, such as bug fixes or feature enhancements.
Submit your contributions to the QGIS community for review.
Collaborate with other developers and learn from their experiences.

Career center

Learners who complete Geographical Information Systems - Part 1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Geographic Information Systems Analyst

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analysts use specialized software to capture, manage, analyze, and visualize geographic data. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills to succeed in this role by teaching you how to digitize and store geodata, use SQL to manage and analyze data, and create effective maps. Additionally, you will learn about the different means used to acquire spatial data, such as direct measurement, georeferencing images, and digitization, which will be valuable knowledge for any GIS Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographic Information Systems Analyst

Cartographer

Cartographers create maps and other visual representations of geographic data. This course will provide you with the skills to create effective maps based on the rules of graphic semiology, which is essential for Cartographers. Additionally, you will learn about the different types of geodata and how to use them to create maps, which will give you a strong foundation in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer

Geomatics Engineer

Geomatics Engineers use their knowledge of surveying, mapping, and remote sensing to solve problems in a variety of industries, including land use planning, environmental management, and transportation. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge in GIS that is essential for Geomatics Engineers, including how to digitize and store geodata, use SQL to manage and analyze data, and create effective maps. Additionally, you will learn about the different means used to acquire spatial data, such as direct measurement, georeferencing images, and digitization, which will be valuable knowledge for any Geomatics Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geomatics Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists use their knowledge of the environment to solve problems and protect the environment. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge in GIS that is essential for Environmental Scientists, including how to digitize and store geodata, use SQL to manage and analyze data, and create effective maps. Additionally, you will learn about the different means used to acquire spatial data, such as direct measurement, georeferencing images, and digitization, which will be valuable knowledge for any Environmental Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Urban Planner

Urban Planners use their knowledge of land use planning and zoning to create plans for the development of cities and towns. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge in GIS that is essential for Urban Planners, including how to digitize and store geodata, use SQL to manage and analyze data, and create effective maps. Additionally, you will learn about the different means used to acquire spatial data, such as direct measurement, georeferencing images, and digitization, which will be valuable knowledge for any Urban Planner.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Transportation Engineer

Transportation Engineers use their knowledge of traffic engineering and transportation planning to design and manage transportation systems. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge in GIS that is essential for Transportation Engineers, including how to digitize and store geodata, use SQL to manage and analyze data, and create effective maps. Additionally, you will learn about the different means used to acquire spatial data, such as direct measurement, georeferencing images, and digitization, which will be valuable knowledge for any Transportation Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Engineer

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This course may be useful for Civil Engineers who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to manage and analyze data related to infrastructure projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts use their knowledge of data analysis to solve problems and make informed decisions. This course may be useful for Data Analysts who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to develop spatial applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close projects. This course may be useful for Project Managers who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to manage and track project data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use their knowledge of business analysis to solve problems and improve business processes. This course may be useful for Business Analysts who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data related to business operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians use their knowledge of statistics to collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course may be useful for Statisticians who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists use their knowledge of epidemiology to investigate and control diseases. This course may be useful for Epidemiologists who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data related to disease outbreaks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Geologist

Geologists use their knowledge of geology to study the Earth's structure and history. This course may be useful for Geologists who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data related to geology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist

Archaeologist

Archaeologists use their knowledge of archaeology to study past human societies. This course may be useful for Archaeologists who want to learn more about GIS, which can be used to analyze spatial data related to archaeological sites.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist