Sorry, this page is no longer available

We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS

Don Boyes

In this course, you will learn how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. First, you will learn how to filter a data set using different types of queries to find just the data you need to answer a particular question. Then, we will discuss simple yet powerful analysis methods that use vector data to find spatial relationships within and between data sets. In this section, you will also learn about how to use ModelBuilder, a simple but powerful tool for building analysis flowcharts that can then also be run as models. You will then learn how to find, understand, and use remotely sensed data such as satellite imagery, as a rich source of GIS data. You will then learn how to analyze raster data. Finally, you will complete your own project where you get to try out the new skills and tools you have learned about in this course.

Note: software is not provided for this course.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until March 12, 2027

Save 40% Off 3 Months

Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.

What's inside

Syllabus

Filtering Data Using Queries

Vector analysis

Remote sensing as a GIS data source

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a foundation for GIS data analysis, which is a core skill for various industries and research fields

Introduces a range of data analysis methods, including vector analysis and raster analysis, which are essential for spatial problem-solving

Emphasizes practical application through hands-on project work, allowing learners to apply their newfound skills and knowledge

Covers a comprehensive range of topics, from data filtering and querying to remote sensing and raster analysis, providing a well-rounded understanding of GIS data analysis

Taught by Don Boyes, an experienced GIS professional and educator, who brings real-world expertise and insights to the course

Relies on learners to have access to their own software, which may pose a barrier for those without the necessary resources

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Spatial analysis and satellite imagery essentials

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in spatial analysis and satellite imagery. Students particularly appreciate the final project which provides valuable practical application. The theoretical content covering topics like vector and raster analysis is often described as clear and well-explained. However, a recurring point of feedback, often expressed as a major weakness, is the quality and clarity of the hands-on labs. Many found the lab instructions confusing, outdated, or reliant on specific, potentially unsupported software versions, making practical application challenging for some. Despite lab difficulties, the core concepts are deemed valuable for understanding GIS principles.

Core concepts and principles are explained effectively.

"I learned so much about spatial analysis and working with satellite imagery. The lectures were clear and easy to follow."

"Solid course on spatial analysis fundamentals. It covers querying, vector analysis, and raster analysis effectively. The introduction to satellite imagery was also valuable."

"Fantastic course! I found the lectures engaging and the material very relevant to my work."

"A good overview of spatial analysis techniques. The course covers querying, vector and raster analysis, and satellite imagery basics. The theory parts are explained reasonably well."

"Excellent course for understanding the fundamental principles of spatial analysis."

The capstone project is highly praised for practical application.

"The final project was a great way to apply what I learned."

"The final project allowed me to integrate everything and work on a real-world problem."

"The final project was a highlight, providing much-needed practical experience."

"The final project is excellent for synthesizing knowledge."

"The final project is the best part."

"The final project is a great capstone."

Delivery style could be more engaging.

"The videos are a bit dry, and some explanations are not as clear as they could be."

"The lectures are boring and barely explain the concepts needed for the labs."

Lack of provided software leads to difficulties.

"Note: software is not provided for this course."

"It assumes you already know how to use the specific GIS software, which defeats the purpose."

"The software setup issues are also a pain point, as specific versions seem required but not provided or clearly specified."

Some course material and software examples are old.

"There were also a few outdated sections, particularly regarding software versions..."

"Very disappointed. The course material is outdated, especially the software examples."

"The labs are impossible to complete because the software and data links are broken or outdated."

"...they seem to rely on specific, possibly outdated software versions."

Hands-on exercises often lack clarity and guidance.

"The labs provided were lacking clarity. It felt like I had to spend a lot of time just trying to figure out how the labs were organized..."

"The labs were confusing at times, and I struggled to complete them without outside help."

"My main issue was with the lab exercises - they were often poorly explained or used datasets/software versions that didn't match the current state, causing frustration."

"However, the practical exercises (labs) are a major weak point. They are confusingly structured and don't always align well with the lecture material."

"However, the hands-on labs are frustrating. Instructions are unclear..."

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 Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS with these activities:

Read 'Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop' by Michael Law

Show steps

Gain a comprehensive understanding of ArcGIS Desktop, the software used in this course.

View Getting to Know ArcGIS Desktop 10. 8 on Amazon

Show steps

Read through the chapters covering the basics of ArcGIS Desktop
Complete the exercises and examples provided in the book

Participate in a study group to discuss course topics

Show steps

Engage with fellow students to exchange ideas, clarify concepts, and enhance your understanding.

Show steps

Join or form a study group with other course participants
Meet regularly to discuss course materials, assignments, and projects
Share perspectives, ask questions, and collaborate on problem-solving

Follow tutorials on spatial data analysis techniques

Show steps

Enhance your proficiency in spatial data analysis by practicing with guided tutorials.

Browse courses on Spatial Data Analysis

Show steps

Identify relevant tutorials on data analysis techniques
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, applying the techniques to practice datasets

Three other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all six activities

Complete practice exercises on data filtering and analysis

Show steps

Strengthen your skills in data filtering and analysis through repetitive practice.

Browse courses on Data Filtering

Show steps

Find practice exercises or online quizzes on data filtering and analysis
Complete the exercises, paying attention to accuracy and efficiency
Review your answers and identify areas for improvement

Create a mind map summarizing GIS concepts

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of GIS concepts by visually organizing them in a mind map.

Show steps

Identify the key concepts covered in the course
Use a mind mapping tool or software to create a diagram connecting the concepts
Add notes and examples to provide further context

Attend a workshop on advanced GIS techniques

Show steps

Expand your knowledge and skills by attending a workshop focused on advanced GIS techniques.

Browse courses on Spatial Modeling

Show steps

Identify and register for a relevant workshop
Actively participate in the workshop, asking questions and taking notes
Apply the techniques learned in the workshop to your course projects

Career center

Learners who complete Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Geospatial Analyst

Geospatial analysts use geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize data. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to use GIS to solve problems and make decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geospatial Analyst

Spatial Data Scientist

Spatial data scientists use statistical and computational methods to analyze spatial data. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to use spatial data to solve problems and make decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Spatial Data Scientist

GIS Analyst

GIS analysts use geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize data. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to use GIS to solve problems and make decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Analyst

Remote Sensing Analyst

Remote sensing analysts use satellite imagery and other remotely sensed data to study the Earth's surface. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to use remote sensing data to solve problems and make decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Remote Sensing Analyst

GIS Manager

GIS managers oversee the use of geographic information systems (GIS) within an organization. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to manage GIS projects and ensure that GIS is used effectively within your organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Manager

Cartographer

Cartographers create maps that represent geographical data. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to create accurate and informative maps.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer

Geographer

Geographers study the Earth's surface and its human and natural environments. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to conduct geographic research and solve real-world problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Land Surveyor

Land surveyors measure and map the Earth's surface. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to conduct land surveys and create accurate maps.

See salaries and explore the career path for Land Surveyor

Planning Analyst

Planning analysts develop and implement plans for the use of land and other resources. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to conduct land use planning and environmental impact assessments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Planning Analyst

Urban Planner

Urban planners develop and implement plans for the use of land and other resources in urban areas. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to conduct land use planning and environmental impact assessments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Water Resources Engineer

Water resources engineers design and manage water systems. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to design and manage water systems that meet the needs of society and the environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resources Engineer

Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife biologists study the behavior, ecology, and conservation of wildlife. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to conduct wildlife research and conservation planning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wildlife Biologist

Map Librarian

Map librarians manage and provide access to maps and other geographic information resources. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to organize and catalog maps and other geographic information resources.

See salaries and explore the career path for Map Librarian

Business Analyst

Business analysts use data to help businesses make decisions. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to analyze map data using different data types and methods to answer geographic questions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to use data to identify opportunities and solve problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Analyst

Data analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS may be useful in this role as it teaches you how to filter a data set using different types of queries to find just the data you need to answer a particular question. This course can help you develop the skills you need to work with large datasets and identify trends and patterns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS.

Geographic Information Science and Systems

Save

A comprehensive textbook that covers the full range of GIS and science, from the basics to advanced topics. Useful as a reference source for more advanced topics.

Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Spatial analysis and satellite imagery essentials

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

14-Day Refund Guarantee

Verified Academic & Industry Partner