Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Dive - M…

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

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Builds a strong foundation in core principles and technologies

Strengthens existing foundation for GIS professionals

Develops advanced cartographic skills necessary for effective communication

Taught by experienced instructors in the field

Coursework is multi-modal and includes a mix of media

May require access to additional software or tools

Reviews summary

Comprehensive geospatial visualization deep dive

According to students, this course offers a deep dive into cartography and geovisualization, with many finding the hands-on labs and practical application of skills highly valuable for their careers. Learners particularly praise the detailed modules on 3D Digital Elevation Models and various map types like choropleth and isarithmic. However, a significant number of students highlight that the course assumes prior GIS familiarity, making it a challenging experience for absolute beginners. Some also noted occasional software access issues and an inconsistent pace in certain modules, recommending strong self-discipline.

Provides a deep dive into complex cartographic principles.

"This MicroMasters truly offers a deeper dive into cartography, exceeding my expectations for specialized learning."

"A very solid course for understanding advanced geovisualization techniques, with excellent sections on data classification."

"The transformation of raster to vector data and the detailed work on graduated symbol maps gave me new perspectives."

"I learned a lot about map communication and data classification, finding the theoretical and practical balance excellent."

Focuses on immediately applicable mapping techniques.

"I found the modules on 3D DEMs and viewshed analysis incredibly practical for my work in urban planning."

"The hands-on labs using professional software were invaluable, enhancing my ability to communicate spatial information effectively."

"The assignments were challenging but perfectly aligned with real-world scenarios, making the skills immediately applicable."

"This course truly enhances one's ability to create informative and visually compelling maps, offering an indispensable addition to my toolkit."

Some modules' pace felt inconsistent; materials could be more engaging.

"I felt the pace was inconsistent; some modules felt rushed while others dragged."

"The support on the discussion forums wasn't always as responsive as I hoped, which impacted my learning."

"The course materials felt a bit dry at times; some parts could benefit from more interactive elements or updated examples."

Learners may face hurdles with specific software versions.

"My only minor critique is that access to specific software versions sometimes posed a challenge."

"I struggled with the software setups, which was a barrier for me and made it harder to grasp concepts thoroughly."

"The software requirements were also a barrier for me, making the initial stages of the course difficult to navigate."

Not suitable for beginners; assumes existing GIS background.

"It does assume some prior GIS familiarity, which was fine for me, but beginners might struggle a bit to keep up."

"I found this course quite difficult without a strong GIS background; it's definitely not beginner-friendly."

"It's definitely for those who already have some background in GIS, otherwise, the initial concepts might be overwhelming."

"The course assumes too much prior knowledge, and I felt lost almost from the beginning, struggling to keep up."

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 Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Dive - MicroMasters with these activities:

Read: 'GIS for Dummies'

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Provides a solid introduction to the fundamental concepts and applications of GIS.

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Read the book to gain a basic understanding of GIS.
Complete the practice exercises provided in the book.

Attend Local GIS Meetup

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Connect with professionals in the field of cartography and geospatial analysis at a local GIS meetup.

Browse courses on Networking

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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

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Following tutorials will provide practical experience in creating graduated symbol maps.

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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

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Solve Practice Exercises on Vector Data Manipulation

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Practice exercises will strengthen understanding of vector data manipulation and GIS skills.

Browse courses on Vector Data

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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

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Test your knowledge of the differences between vector and raster data and how to convert between them.

Browse courses on Data Conversion

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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

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Engage in discussions with peers to reinforce your understanding of cartographic principles and enhance your ability to communicate spatial information effectively.

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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

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Creating a choropleth map will reinforce concepts of data visualization, geospatial analysis, and mapping techniques.

Browse courses on Choropleth Maps

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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

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Participate in a peer review session to provide and receive feedback on maps created during the course.

Browse courses on Peer Feedback

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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

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Create raster maps from various sources to strengthen your understanding of data conversion and geospatial data manipulation techniques.

Browse courses on Data Conversion

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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

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Creating a DEM will provide hands-on experience with DEMs, 3D visualization, and geospatial analysis.

Browse courses on Digital Elevation Models

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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

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Enhances your ability to organize and manage geospatial data effectively.

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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

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Follow a guided tutorial to master the creation of choropleth maps for effective data representation.

Browse courses on Choropleth Maps

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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

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Enhance your data visualization skills by learning and practicing advanced techniques for representing spatial data effectively.

Browse courses on Spatial Data Visualization

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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

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Showcase your understanding of cartographic techniques and principles by creating a portfolio of visually compelling maps.

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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

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Develops your skills in creating visually compelling maps that effectively communicate spatial patterns.

Browse courses on Choropleth Maps

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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

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Design and create a custom map that showcases your proficiency in advanced mapping techniques.

Browse courses on Map Design

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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

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Solidifies your ability to create and interpret different types of maps.

Browse courses on Map Design

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Identify different types of maps used in various fields.
Practice creating maps using real-world datasets.

Develop a spatial data analysis project

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Encourages you to apply your knowledge and skills to solve a real-world problem through spatial data analysis.

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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.

Career center

Learners who complete Planet Earth Geovisualization, Deeper Dive - MicroMasters will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers: