Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Dive - MicroMasters
In this two-part series you will dive into the dynamic world of cartography with our comprehensive course, "Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Diver - Micromasters." These courses are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern map-making and geospatial analysis. Throughout the courses, students will explore the art and science of cartography, focusing on the principles and techniques essential for effective map communication.
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In this two-part series you will dive into the dynamic world of cartography with our comprehensive course, "Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Diver - Micromasters." These courses are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern map-making and geospatial analysis. Throughout the courses, students will explore the art and science of cartography, focusing on the principles and techniques essential for effective map communication.
In this two-part series you will dive into the dynamic world of cartography with our comprehensive course, "Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Diver - Micromasters." These courses are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in modern map-making and geospatial analysis. Throughout the courses, students will explore the art and science of cartography, focusing on the principles and techniques essential for effective map communication.
Learning Objectives:
Examine the Art and Science of Cartography :
- Understand the fundamental principles and history of cartography.
- Analyze the key components that contribute to effective map communication, including scale, projection, and symbolization.
Create Vector Map Data from Raster Maps :
Learn to convert raster map data into vector formats.
Develop skills in organizing and managing geospatial data within a geodatabase.
Design Choropleth Maps :
Master the creation of choropleth maps to visually represent spatial data.
Apply appropriate data classification techniques and symbology to convey clear and accurate information.
Develop Graduated Symbol Maps :
Create graduated symbol maps to represent varying data magnitudes.
Implement effective data classification techniques and symbology for enhanced visual interpretation.
Construct Isarithmic Maps :
Learn to produce isarithmic maps to illustrate continuous data surfaces.
Utilize appropriate data classification techniques and symbology for accurate representation of phenomena.
Render 3D Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) :
Transform DEMs into 3D visualizations for advanced geospatial analysis.
Perform viewshed and line of sight calculations to assess visibility and spatial relationships in a three-dimensional context.
By the end of this two-part series, students will have a thorough understanding of cartographic principles and will be proficient in using various mapping techniques to create informative and visually compelling maps. Whether you're a novice or an experienced GIS professional, this course will enhance your ability to communicate spatial information effectively through innovative and precise map design.
What's inside
Learning objectives
- At the end of the two-part series, students will be able to:
- Examine the art and science of cartography and the components of map communication
- Create vector map data in a geodatabase from a raster map
- Create a choropleth map illustrating appropriate data classification techniques and symbology
- Create a graduated symbol map illustrating appropriate data classification techniques and symbology
- Create an isarithmic map illustrating appropriate data classification technique and symbology
- Render a digital elevation model (dem) into a 3d image to create viewshed and line of sight calculations
- At the end of the two-part series, students will be able to:
- Examine the art and science of cartography and the components of map communication
- Create vector map data in a geodatabase from a raster map
- Create a choropleth map illustrating appropriate data classification techniques and symbology
- Create a graduated symbol map illustrating appropriate data classification techniques and symbology
- Create an isarithmic map illustrating appropriate data classification technique and symbology
- Render a digital elevation model (dem) into a 3d image to create viewshed and line of sight calculations
Good to know
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Activities
Read: 'GIS for Dummies'
Show steps
Provides a solid introduction to the fundamental concepts and applications of GIS.
Show steps
-
Read the book to gain a basic understanding of GIS.
-
Complete the practice exercises provided in the book.
Attend Local GIS Meetup
Show steps
Connect with professionals in the field of cartography and geospatial analysis at a local GIS meetup.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Research local GIS meetups or conferences
-
Attend the event and engage with other attendees
-
Follow up with potential connections and explore opportunities
Follow Tutorials on Creating Graduated Symbol Maps
Show steps
Following tutorials will provide practical experience in creating graduated symbol maps.
Show steps
-
Identify online tutorials or video demonstrations on graduated symbol maps
-
Follow the steps outlined in the tutorials
-
Create your own graduated symbol map using the techniques learned
15 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 18 activities
Solve Practice Exercises on Vector Data Manipulation
Show steps
Practice exercises will strengthen understanding of vector data manipulation and GIS skills.
Browse courses on
Vector Data
Show steps
-
Find online resources or textbooks with practice exercises
-
Work through the exercises, applying concepts of vector data manipulation
-
Check your answers against provided solutions or consult with peers
Vector vs Raster Quiz
Show steps
Test your knowledge of the differences between vector and raster data and how to convert between them.
Browse courses on
Data Conversion
Show steps
-
Take a quiz on vector and raster data characteristics
-
Practice converting between vector and raster formats
-
Review quiz results and identify areas for improvement
Join a study group to discuss cartographic principles and practices
Show steps
Engage in discussions with peers to reinforce your understanding of cartographic principles and enhance your ability to communicate spatial information effectively.
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with other students enrolled in the course.
-
Set regular meeting times to discuss the course material, share ideas, and work on assignments together.
Develop a Custom Choropleth Map with Data of Your Choice
Show steps
Creating a choropleth map will reinforce concepts of data visualization, geospatial analysis, and mapping techniques.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
-
Choose a dataset of interest and gather the necessary data
-
Determine appropriate data classification and symbolization techniques
-
Create the choropleth map using software like ArcGIS or QGIS
-
Analyze and interpret the map, identifying patterns and insights
Collaborative Map Review
Show steps
Participate in a peer review session to provide and receive feedback on maps created during the course.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
-
Create a map as an initial draft
-
Share your map with peers and gather feedback
-
Incorporate feedback into your map and present the revised version
Create a series of raster maps from different sources
Show steps
Create raster maps from various sources to strengthen your understanding of data conversion and geospatial data manipulation techniques.
Browse courses on
Data Conversion
Show steps
-
Identify and gather raster data from different sources, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, or scanned maps.
-
Use appropriate software or tools to convert the raster data into a common format.
-
Check the quality and accuracy of the converted raster maps.
Create a Digital Elevation Map of Your Local Area
Show steps
Creating a DEM will provide hands-on experience with DEMs, 3D visualization, and geospatial analysis.
Browse courses on
Digital Elevation Models
Show steps
-
Gather data from public sources such as USGS or NASA
-
Process and prepare the data for DEM creation using software like ArcGIS or QGIS
-
Generate the DEM using appropriate algorithms and techniques
-
Visualize the DEM in 3D using software tools to explore the terrain
Follow tutorials on geospatial data management
Show steps
Enhances your ability to organize and manage geospatial data effectively.
Show steps
-
Locate reputable online tutorials on geospatial data management.
-
Follow the tutorials to learn about different data structures and management techniques.
-
Create a sample geodatabase and populate it with your own data.
Choropleth Mapping Tutorial
Show steps
Follow a guided tutorial to master the creation of choropleth maps for effective data representation.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
-
Complete a tutorial on choropleth map design principles
-
Apply learnings to create a choropleth map using real-world data
-
Share your map and get feedback from peers or instructors
Explore advanced techniques for visualizing spatial data
Show steps
Enhance your data visualization skills by learning and practicing advanced techniques for representing spatial data effectively.
Browse courses on
Spatial Data Visualization
Show steps
-
Research and identify advanced data visualization techniques, such as 3D mapping, interactive visualizations, or dashboards.
-
Find tutorials or online resources that provide guidance on implementing these techniques.
-
Follow the tutorials to create visualizations using your own data or sample datasets.
Create a Map Portfolio
Show steps
Showcase your understanding of cartographic techniques and principles by creating a portfolio of visually compelling maps.
Show steps
-
Gather data and determine map purpose
-
Design and create maps using appropriate techniques
-
Evaluate and refine maps for clarity and effectiveness
Design a choropleth map to visualize spatial data
Show steps
Develops your skills in creating visually compelling maps that effectively communicate spatial patterns.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
-
Select an appropriate dataset for choropleth mapping.
-
Apply data classification techniques to categorize data.
-
Design and create a choropleth map using a suitable mapping software.
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of your choropleth map.
Custom Map Design Project
Show steps
Design and create a custom map that showcases your proficiency in advanced mapping techniques.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
-
Identify a real-world problem or issue that can be addressed through mapping
-
Design and create a map that effectively communicates your findings
-
Present your map and findings to an audience or publish it online
Practice creating different types of maps
Show steps
Solidifies your ability to create and interpret different types of maps.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
-
Identify different types of maps used in various fields.
-
Practice creating maps using real-world datasets.
Develop a spatial data analysis project
Show steps
Encourages you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve a real-world problem through spatial data analysis.
Show steps
-
Define a specific problem or research question that can be addressed using spatial data analysis.
-
Collect, process, and analyze relevant spatial data to answer your research question.
-
Synthesize your findings and create a report or presentation to communicate your results.
Read: 'GIS for Dummies'
Show steps
Provides a solid introduction to the fundamental concepts and applications of GIS.
Show steps
- Read the book to gain a basic understanding of GIS.
- Complete the practice exercises provided in the book.
Attend Local GIS Meetup
Show steps
Connect with professionals in the field of cartography and geospatial analysis at a local GIS meetup.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
- Research local GIS meetups or conferences
- Attend the event and engage with other attendees
- Follow up with potential connections and explore opportunities
Follow Tutorials on Creating Graduated Symbol Maps
Show steps
Following tutorials will provide practical experience in creating graduated symbol maps.
Show steps
- Identify online tutorials or video demonstrations on graduated symbol maps
- Follow the steps outlined in the tutorials
- Create your own graduated symbol map using the techniques learned
Solve Practice Exercises on Vector Data Manipulation
Show steps
Practice exercises will strengthen understanding of vector data manipulation and GIS skills.
Browse courses on
Vector Data
Show steps
- Find online resources or textbooks with practice exercises
- Work through the exercises, applying concepts of vector data manipulation
- Check your answers against provided solutions or consult with peers
Vector vs Raster Quiz
Show steps
Test your knowledge of the differences between vector and raster data and how to convert between them.
Browse courses on
Data Conversion
Show steps
- Take a quiz on vector and raster data characteristics
- Practice converting between vector and raster formats
- Review quiz results and identify areas for improvement
Join a study group to discuss cartographic principles and practices
Show steps
Engage in discussions with peers to reinforce your understanding of cartographic principles and enhance your ability to communicate spatial information effectively.
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with other students enrolled in the course.
- Set regular meeting times to discuss the course material, share ideas, and work on assignments together.
Develop a Custom Choropleth Map with Data of Your Choice
Show steps
Creating a choropleth map will reinforce concepts of data visualization, geospatial analysis, and mapping techniques.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
- Choose a dataset of interest and gather the necessary data
- Determine appropriate data classification and symbolization techniques
- Create the choropleth map using software like ArcGIS or QGIS
- Analyze and interpret the map, identifying patterns and insights
Collaborative Map Review
Show steps
Participate in a peer review session to provide and receive feedback on maps created during the course.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
- Create a map as an initial draft
- Share your map with peers and gather feedback
- Incorporate feedback into your map and present the revised version
Create a series of raster maps from different sources
Show steps
Create raster maps from various sources to strengthen your understanding of data conversion and geospatial data manipulation techniques.
Browse courses on
Data Conversion
Show steps
- Identify and gather raster data from different sources, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, or scanned maps.
- Use appropriate software or tools to convert the raster data into a common format.
- Check the quality and accuracy of the converted raster maps.
Create a Digital Elevation Map of Your Local Area
Show steps
Creating a DEM will provide hands-on experience with DEMs, 3D visualization, and geospatial analysis.
Browse courses on
Digital Elevation Models
Show steps
- Gather data from public sources such as USGS or NASA
- Process and prepare the data for DEM creation using software like ArcGIS or QGIS
- Generate the DEM using appropriate algorithms and techniques
- Visualize the DEM in 3D using software tools to explore the terrain
Follow tutorials on geospatial data management
Show steps
Enhances your ability to organize and manage geospatial data effectively.
Show steps
- Locate reputable online tutorials on geospatial data management.
- Follow the tutorials to learn about different data structures and management techniques.
- Create a sample geodatabase and populate it with your own data.
Choropleth Mapping Tutorial
Show steps
Follow a guided tutorial to master the creation of choropleth maps for effective data representation.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
- Complete a tutorial on choropleth map design principles
- Apply learnings to create a choropleth map using real-world data
- Share your map and get feedback from peers or instructors
Explore advanced techniques for visualizing spatial data
Show steps
Enhance your data visualization skills by learning and practicing advanced techniques for representing spatial data effectively.
Browse courses on
Spatial Data Visualization
Show steps
- Research and identify advanced data visualization techniques, such as 3D mapping, interactive visualizations, or dashboards.
- Find tutorials or online resources that provide guidance on implementing these techniques.
- Follow the tutorials to create visualizations using your own data or sample datasets.
Create a Map Portfolio
Show steps
Showcase your understanding of cartographic techniques and principles by creating a portfolio of visually compelling maps.
Show steps
- Gather data and determine map purpose
- Design and create maps using appropriate techniques
- Evaluate and refine maps for clarity and effectiveness
Design a choropleth map to visualize spatial data
Show steps
Develops your skills in creating visually compelling maps that effectively communicate spatial patterns.
Browse courses on
Choropleth Maps
Show steps
- Select an appropriate dataset for choropleth mapping.
- Apply data classification techniques to categorize data.
- Design and create a choropleth map using a suitable mapping software.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your choropleth map.
Custom Map Design Project
Show steps
Design and create a custom map that showcases your proficiency in advanced mapping techniques.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
- Identify a real-world problem or issue that can be addressed through mapping
- Design and create a map that effectively communicates your findings
- Present your map and findings to an audience or publish it online
Practice creating different types of maps
Show steps
Solidifies your ability to create and interpret different types of maps.
Browse courses on
Map Design
Show steps
- Identify different types of maps used in various fields.
- Practice creating maps using real-world datasets.
Develop a spatial data analysis project
Show steps
Encourages you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve a real-world problem through spatial data analysis.
Show steps
- Define a specific problem or research question that can be addressed using spatial data analysis.
- Collect, process, and analyze relevant spatial data to answer your research question.
- Synthesize your findings and create a report or presentation to communicate your results.
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