Introduction to GIS Mapping from Coursera

Get started learning about the fascinating and useful world of geographic information systems (GIS)! In this first course of the specialization GIS, Mapping, and Spatial Analysis, you'll learn about what a GIS is, how to get started with the software yourself, how things we find in the real world can be represented on a map, how we record locations using coordinates, and how we can make a two-dimensional map from a three-dimensional Earth. In the course project, you will create your own GIS data by tracing geographic features from a satellite image for a location and theme of your choice. This course will give you a strong foundation in mapping and GIS that will give you the understanding you need to start working with GIS, and to succeed in the other courses in this specialization.

This course is for anyone who wants to learn about mapping and GIS. You don't have to have any previous experience - just your curiosity! The course includes both practical software training and explanations of the concepts you need to know to make informed decisions as you start your journey to becoming a GIS analyst.

You will need a Windows computer with ArcGIS Desktop installed. (software is not provided)

What's inside

Syllabus

What is a GIS?

Introduction to ArcGIS

Mapping the real world with vector and raster data

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Develops foundational knowledge and skills in mapping that provides learners with an excellent launch point

Teaches the latest version of ESRI's cutting-edge GIS software, which is a global standard in geospatial analysis and mapping

Taught by instructors who have extensive experience and knowlege in working with GIS which can provide learners with exclusive industry insights

Offers hands-on multimedia learning materials like videos and software activities that can enhance learner understanding and engagement

Builds a strong foundation in the latest GIS workflow and beginners with zero to no GIS experience can get started

May require access to specific software that is costly, posing potential barriers

Reviews summary

Solid introductory gis with arcgis

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in the fundamentals of GIS, mapping, and spatial analysis. Many find it to be a good starting point for those with no prior experience, praising the clarity of the concepts covered in the lectures. The hands-on project involving creating GIS data is frequently highlighted as a practical and valuable component that helps solidify understanding. However, a significant point raised is the requirement for and potential difficulty in accessing or installing ArcGIS Desktop software, which is not provided and runs only on Windows, posing a potential hurdle for some students. Despite this, the course is generally seen as an effective introduction to the field and a strong preparation for the rest of the specialization.

Lectures explain core ideas well.

"The explanations of vector vs raster, coordinate systems, and projections were very clear."

"Lectures break down complex GIS ideas into understandable parts."

"Found the explanations easy to follow even as a total novice."

"The core concepts were presented effectively."

Hands-on project reinforces learning.

"The final project where you create your own data was very practical and helped connect the dots."

"I really enjoyed the hands-on aspect of the project, it made the concepts stick."

"The project was challenging but rewarding, applying what we learned directly."

"Creating my own dataset was a great way to practice the skills taught."

Provides a good introduction for beginners.

"This course provides a solid foundation in GIS concepts and mapping techniques..."

"It was a good starting point for someone with absolutely no background in GIS."

"I feel like I have a good understanding now of what GIS is and how it works..."

"Gained a strong base to continue learning in the specialization."

Issues with installation or access reported.

"Spent more time troubleshooting ArcGIS installation and licensing than on the coursework itself."

"If you don't have easy access to ArcGIS or a Windows machine, this course will be difficult."

"Struggled getting the specific version of ArcGIS needed to work properly."

"Wish there was more support or guidance on getting the software set up."

Specific software required but not provided.

"Be aware you absolutely NEED ArcGIS Desktop installed and working to do the assignments. It's not provided..."

"Having to obtain and install the ArcGIS software was a major barrier and source of frustration for me."

"The course relies entirely on ArcGIS Desktop which requires a Windows machine..."

"The requirement for ArcGIS software without provision is a significant drawback."

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 Introduction to GIS Mapping with these activities:

Read 'GIS Fundamentals' by Paul Bolstad

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of GIS concepts and principles from a reputable source, strengthening your theoretical foundation.

View GIS Fundamentals on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts
Complete the exercises and review questions at the end of each chapter
Discuss the book's content with classmates or online forums to enhance your understanding

Review Coordinate Systems

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Familiarize yourself with coordinate systems to enhance your understanding of mapping and GIS concepts.

Browse courses on Coordinate Systems

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Revisit the basics of latitude and longitude
Explore different coordinate systems used in GIS, such as UTM and geographic
Practice converting between coordinate systems using online tools or GIS software

Follow Tutorials on ArcGIS Basics

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Gain hands-on experience with ArcGIS software through guided tutorials, solidifying your understanding of GIS principles.

Browse courses on ArcGIS

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Find online tutorials for ArcGIS Desktop or ArcGIS Online
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, completing the exercises and creating your own maps
Experiment with different ArcGIS tools and features to familiarize yourself with their functionality

Four other activities

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Participate in GIS Study Groups

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Engage with fellow learners to discuss course concepts, share insights, and support each other's understanding of GIS.

Browse courses on GIS

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Join or form a study group with other students enrolled in the course
Meet regularly to review course material, work on projects together, and clarify any doubts
Engage in discussions, share resources, and provide constructive feedback to enhance collective learning

Practice Using GIS Software

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Develop proficiency in using GIS software through repetitive exercises, enhancing your technical skills and confidence in handling spatial data.

Browse courses on GIS

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Find online GIS exercises or create your own scenarios
Practice using GIS tools to solve spatial problems, such as finding optimal routes or analyzing land use patterns
Compare your results with others or seek feedback from experts to refine your skills

Attend a GIS Workshop

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Accelerate your learning by attending a GIS workshop, gaining hands-on experience and insights from industry professionals.

Browse courses on GIS

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Identify relevant GIS workshops in your area or online
Attend the workshop, actively participate in discussions and exercises
Network with other attendees and experts to expand your professional connections

Create a Map of Your Neighborhood

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Apply your GIS skills to create a meaningful representation of your own neighborhood, deepening your understanding of spatial data and its applications.

Browse courses on Mapping

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Gather data about your neighborhood, such as land use, demographics, and points of interest
Use ArcGIS to create a map that visualizes the data in a clear and engaging way
Share your map with others and discuss your findings

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to GIS Mapping will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

GIS Analyst

A GIS Analyst gathers, analyzes, and interprets spatial data. As a GIS Analyst, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and other visualizations that communicate geographic information. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a GIS Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Analyst

Geospatial Analyst

A Geospatial Analyst uses geospatial data to solve problems. As a Geospatial Analyst, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to analyze data and create solutions to problems in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, and public health. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Geospatial Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geospatial Analyst

Cartographer

A Cartographer creates maps and other visualizations that communicate geographic information. As a Cartographer, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps that are accurate, informative, and visually appealing. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Cartographer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist

A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist is responsible for managing and analyzing geospatial data. As a GIS Specialist, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps, analyze data, and solve problems in a variety of fields. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a GIS Specialist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist

Urban Planner

An Urban Planner develops plans for the use of land in urban areas. As an Urban Planner, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to make decisions about land use, transportation, and other aspects of urban planning. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as an Urban Planner.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Environmental Scientist

An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and its components. As an Environmental Scientist, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to assess the impact of human activities on the environment. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as an Environmental Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Transportation Planner

A Transportation Planner develops plans for the transportation system in a particular area. As a Transportation Planner, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to make decisions about the location of roads, highways, and other transportation infrastructure. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Transportation Planner.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Planner

Public Health Analyst

A Public Health Analyst uses data to improve public health. As a Public Health Analyst, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to identify and address public health problems. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Public Health Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Analyst

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses data to solve problems. As a Data Scientist, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to analyze data and create solutions to problems in a variety of fields. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Geographer

A Geographer studies the Earth and its people. As a Geographer, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to understand the Earth's physical and human geography. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Geographer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Surveyor

A Surveyor measures and maps land. As a Surveyor, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to determine the boundaries of land parcels and other features. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Surveyor.

See salaries and explore the career path for Surveyor

Remote Sensing Analyst

A Remote Sensing Analyst uses satellite imagery and other data to study the Earth's surface. As a Remote Sensing Analyst, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create maps and analyze data that can be used to identify and monitor changes in the Earth's surface. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a Remote Sensing Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Remote Sensing Analyst

GIS Technician

A GIS Technician provides technical support for GIS users. As a GIS Technician, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to help users create maps and analyze data. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a GIS Technician.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Technician

GIS Programmer

A GIS Programmer develops software for GIS users. As a GIS Programmer, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to create software that can be used to create maps and analyze data. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a GIS Programmer.

See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Programmer

GIS Manager

A GIS Manager is responsible for managing a GIS department. As a GIS Manager, you would use your knowledge of GIS software and mapping principles to oversee the creation of maps and the analysis of data. This course may be useful for learning the basics of GIS and preparing for a role as a GIS Manager.

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Introduction to GIS Mapping

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Reviews summary

Solid introductory gis with arcgis

Activities

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