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Don Boyes
In this capstone course, you will apply everything you have learned by designing and then completing your own GIS project. You will plan out your project by writing a brief proposal that explains what you plan to do and why. You will then find data for a topic and location of your choice, and perform analysis and create maps that allow you to try out different tools and data sets. The results of your work will be assembled into an Esri story map, which is a web site with maps, images, text, and video. The goal is for you to have a finished product that you can share, and that demonstrates what you have learned.
Read more
In this capstone course, you will apply everything you have learned by designing and then completing your own GIS project. You will plan out your project by writing a brief proposal that explains what you plan to do and why. You will then find data for a topic and location of your choice, and perform analysis and create maps that allow you to try out different tools and data sets. The results of your work will be assembled into an Esri story map, which is a web site with maps, images, text, and video. The goal is for you to have a finished product that you can share, and that demonstrates what you have learned.
Read more
In this capstone course, you will apply everything you have learned by designing and then completing your own GIS project. You will plan out your project by writing a brief proposal that explains what you plan to do and why. You will then find data for a topic and location of your choice, and perform analysis and create maps that allow you to try out different tools and data sets. The results of your work will be assembled into an Esri story map, which is a web site with maps, images, text, and video. The goal is for you to have a finished product that you can share, and that demonstrates what you have learned.
Note: software is not provided for this course.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/ahhaus/gis
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Story Maps
Data Discovery and Project Proposal
Data Acquisition and Preparation
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Syllabus
Introduction to Story Maps
Data Discovery and Project Proposal
Data Acquisition and Preparation
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Completes a project in a topic and location of your choice, increasing the student's real-world experience
Develops a broad skillset in GIS, making students more well-rounded GIS professionals
Teaches the Esri Story Map tool, which will allow students to showcase their work effectively in many industries, including Urban and Land Use Planning, Environmental Consulting, Market Research, and Transportation Planning
The skills learned in the course are highly relevant to industry, ensuring that students are prepared for the workplace
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Reviews summary
Practical gis project application capstone
According to learners, this course serves as a valuable capstone project where they can apply previously learned GIS skills to a topic of their choice. Many students highlight that having strong prerequisites, especially familiarity with ArcGIS Pro and data handling, is essential, as the course does not teach the software basics but focuses on application. Learners appreciate the hands-on approach and the structure that guides them to complete a real-world project culminating in a shareable Esri Story Map. While the independent nature of the project work requires significant self-direction and problem-solving, it is generally viewed as a solid opportunity to demonstrate practical skills and create a tangible output. Overall reception is largely positive, particularly for those well-prepared with prior GIS knowledge.
Requires self-direction and problem-solving skills.
"Finding suitable data and troubleshooting issues requires a lot of independent effort."
"You are largely on your own to choose data and execute the analysis. Be prepared for that."
"The lack of step-by-step tutorials means you need to be comfortable problem-solving independently."
"While challenging, the independence helped me gain confidence in tackling real-world GIS problems."
Focuses on applying concepts via a practical project.
"It's all about applying what you've learned in previous courses to a real project."
"The practical nature of doing the project is far more valuable than just lectures."
"I enjoyed the process of taking a topic and working through the analysis hands-on."
"Applying the concepts I learned in previous courses felt very satisfying through this project."
Creates a tangible, shareable output like a Story Map.
"Creating the Story Map is a great way to showcase your skills to potential employers."
"I now have a complete project that I can add to my portfolio and share with others."
"The final project structure is excellent, guiding you to produce a meaningful result."
"Getting a finished Story Map out of this course was the most rewarding part for me."
Need strong GIS/software skills before enrolling.
"Be aware you need significant prior knowledge of GIS software, especially ArcGIS Pro, as this course doesn't teach it."
"This is truly a capstone - you *must* know how to use the tools already. It's not for beginners."
"I struggled because I wasn't proficient enough with the software going into it. Make sure you know your stuff."
"They assume you know ArcGIS Pro inside and out. If you don't, you will spend all your time troubleshooting software issues instead of focusing on the project."
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 GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone with these
activities:
Review essential GIS concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental GIS concepts to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Spatial Analysis
Show steps
-
Read introductory materials or books on GIS.
-
Recall and review basic GIS terminology and definitions.
Explore mapping tools and techniques
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with different mapping tools and techniques commonly used in GIS.
Browse courses on
ArcGIS
Show steps
-
Research and identify a reputable tutorial or online course on GIS mapping.
-
Follow the tutorial, practicing the mapping techniques.
Develop a simple GIS map
Show steps
Apply your mapping skills by creating a basic GIS map with real-world data.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
-
Identify a topic or area of interest for your map.
-
Acquire relevant spatial and attribute data from reliable sources.
-
Use a GIS software to create your map, including base layers, layers, and symbology.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Practice spatial analysis techniques
Show steps
Sharpen your spatial analysis skills through practice.
Browse courses on
Spatial Statistics
Show steps
-
Find practice problems or datasets related to spatial analysis techniques.
-
Perform spatial analysis operations, such as buffer analysis, overlay analysis, or interpolation.
Collaborate and learn with peers on GIS projects
Show steps
Enhance your learning through collaboration and sharing of knowledge with peers.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Join or create a study group or online forum for GIS students.
-
Share your projects and ideas.
-
Provide and receive feedback on each other's work.
Apply GIS skills in a volunteer project
Show steps
Contribute to the community while gaining practical GIS experience.
Browse courses on
Community Involvement
Show steps
-
Identify volunteer opportunities that involve GIS.
-
Reach out to organizations and inquire about potential projects.
-
Participate in GIS-related activities, such as data collection, mapping, or analysis.
Review essential GIS concepts
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental GIS concepts to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Spatial Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read introductory materials or books on GIS.
- Recall and review basic GIS terminology and definitions.
Explore mapping tools and techniques
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with different mapping tools and techniques commonly used in GIS.
Browse courses on
ArcGIS
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify a reputable tutorial or online course on GIS mapping.
- Follow the tutorial, practicing the mapping techniques.
Develop a simple GIS map
Show steps
Apply your mapping skills by creating a basic GIS map with real-world data.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a topic or area of interest for your map.
- Acquire relevant spatial and attribute data from reliable sources.
- Use a GIS software to create your map, including base layers, layers, and symbology.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Practice spatial analysis techniques
Show steps
Sharpen your spatial analysis skills through practice.
Browse courses on
Spatial Statistics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems or datasets related to spatial analysis techniques.
- Perform spatial analysis operations, such as buffer analysis, overlay analysis, or interpolation.
Collaborate and learn with peers on GIS projects
Show steps
Enhance your learning through collaboration and sharing of knowledge with peers.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or create a study group or online forum for GIS students.
- Share your projects and ideas.
- Provide and receive feedback on each other's work.
Apply GIS skills in a volunteer project
Show steps
Contribute to the community while gaining practical GIS experience.
Browse courses on
Community Involvement
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify volunteer opportunities that involve GIS.
- Reach out to organizations and inquire about potential projects.
- Participate in GIS-related activities, such as data collection, mapping, or analysis.
Career center
Learners who complete GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
GIS Analyst
GIS Analyst
GIS Analysts are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting geographic information. They use their knowledge of GIS software to create maps and other visualizations that can be used to make decisions about land use, infrastructure, and other environmental issues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful GIS Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Cartographer
Cartographer
Cartographers create maps and other visualizations that communicate geographic information. They use their knowledge of GIS software to design and produce maps that are both accurate and visually appealing. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Cartographer, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planners develop plans to protect the environment and natural resources. They use their knowledge of GIS software to analyze data and create maps that can be used to identify and address environmental issues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Environmental Planner, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. They use their knowledge of GIS software to analyze data and create maps that can be used to identify and address urban planning issues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Urban Planner, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planners develop plans for the development and use of transportation systems. They use their knowledge of GIS software to analyze data and create maps that can be used to identify and address transportation planning issues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Transportation Planner, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Land Use Planner
Land Use Planner
Land Use Planners develop plans for the development and use of land. They use their knowledge of GIS software to analyze data and create maps that can be used to identify and address land use planning issues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Land Use Planner, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
GIS Manager
GIS Manager
GIS Managers oversee the development and implementation of GIS systems. They work with GIS Analysts, Cartographers, and other professionals to ensure that GIS systems are used effectively to meet the needs of the organization. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful GIS Manager, including project management, data management, and GIS system administration. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
GIS Developer
GIS Developer
GIS Developers develop GIS software and applications. They work with GIS Analysts, Cartographers, and other professionals to create custom GIS solutions that meet the needs of the organization. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful GIS Developer, including software development, database management, and GIS system administration. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
GIS Educator
GIS Educator
GIS Educators teach GIS courses and workshops. They work with students and other professionals to help them develop the skills they need to use GIS effectively. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful GIS Educator, including teaching methods, curriculum development, and GIS system administration. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Spatial Analyst
Spatial Analyst
Spatial Analysts use GIS software to analyze spatial data. They work with GIS Analysts, Cartographers, and other professionals to identify and address spatial problems. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Spatial Analyst, including data analysis, spatial statistics, and GIS system administration. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data. They use their knowledge of data analysis techniques to identify trends and patterns in data. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Data Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Statistician
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. They use their knowledge of statistics to develop models and make predictions about future events. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Statistician, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
Market Researchers collect, analyze, and interpret data about markets and consumers. They use their knowledge of market research techniques to identify trends and opportunities in the market. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Market Researcher, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business data to identify trends and opportunities. They use their knowledge of business analysis techniques to develop strategies for improving business performance. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Business Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts analyze financial data to identify trends and opportunities in the market. They use their knowledge of financial analysis techniques to develop strategies for improving financial performance. This course may help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Financial Analyst, including data collection, analysis, and visualization. You will also learn how to use GIS software to create professional-quality maps and other visualizations that can be used to communicate your findings to others.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ahhaus/gis
Reading list
We've selected nine 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
GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone.
Save
An in-depth guide to creating engaging and informative story maps using Esri's ArcGIS platform.
An advanced textbook covering the theoretical and practical aspects of spatial data analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of spatial analysis techniques, making it a useful reference for students looking to deepen their understanding of this topic.
Save
A comprehensive reference guide for experienced ArcGIS Pro users.
Save
This textbook provides a solid foundation in GIS principles, making it a helpful resource for students new to the field.
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to map production, making it a valuable reference for students interested in creating high-quality maps.
Explores best practices for managing and organizing GIS data.
A comprehensive guide for beginners who are new to ArcGIS Pro.
A user-friendly introduction to GIS for beginners with no prior knowledge.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ahhaus/gis
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Introductory
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University of Toronto
Instructor
Don Boyes
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis. It's comprised of four courses:
- GIS Data Acquisition and Map Design
- GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis Capstone (viewing)
- Spatial Analysis and Satellite Imagery in a GIS
- Introduction to GIS Mapping
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