GIS Data in the Public Sector

Students of this class will learn how to use GIS (Geographic Information Systems) technology for creating thematic maps and infographics.  Students will be granted a professional grade license to the ArcGIS Online software, as well as access to companion tools such as Community Analyst.  The ArcGIS software - produced by Esri, Inc -  lets anyone find and curate spatial datasets, create insightful maps, manage their own spatial data resources, and perform geographic analysis.

ArcGIS Online cloud technology also provides rapid access to thousands of data variables, including US Census Bureau compilations, business data on purchasing patterns, current and historical aerial and satellite imagery, landuse and landcover layers, and many more data themes.  ArcGIS Online software-as-a-service needs only a web browser interface to provide this functionality- no software installation is necessary.  Through the use of web-GIS software, students can access and analyze spatial data, create and embed interactive charts, photos, and video into their maps, and publish story maps over the internet.  Story maps are a type of interactive app that can be shared to the general public, in support of capstone projects or other research and presentation needs.

There are no prerequisites for this class.  Basic knowledge and skills in the use of Microsoft Excel software will be helpful.