Introduction to Geospatial Data Visualization

The ability to work with spatial data has become an essential skill, not only in academic research but also in our daily lives. These skills encompass various aspects, including data collection, storage, visualization, and analysis. The aim of this course is to develop a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) principles, familiarize students with spatially referenced data, and cultivate fundamental skills in geospatial data visualization (mapping). While the course primarily focuses on practical mapping skills for societal and environmental phenomena, it also provides a brief introduction to alternative data collection technologies, such as satellite imagery, crowdsourcing, and expert knowledge.

Participants learn about the types of data that can be stored in online geospatial datasets, as well as how to obtain, develop, and share them. Additionally, students gain an understanding of map design considerations for different purposes, including internet-based publications and journal articles. The course explores both desktop and online mapping solutions, including Google Earth Pro, Google Maps, and qGIS. QuantumGIS (qGIS), the most popular and widely used open-source GIS package, serves as the primary software for illustrating geospatial data collection, generation, and visualization techniques. Through practical individual and group online exercises using qGIS, participants acquire the foundations of working with a typical GIS package and learn essential mapping principles. To successfully complete the course, students are be required to develop their own mapping project on a topic of their interest. Please note that no audit option is available for this course.

American University of Central Asia offers this course under the name "Applied GIS for Urban Analysis".
Bard College offers this course under the name "GIS for Environmental Justice".