GIS and GeoWeb Applications in Libraries ~ Self-paced

This is an asynchronous, self-paced course: asynchronous learning does not require real-time interaction; instead, content is available online for students to access when it best suits their schedules, and assignments are completed to posted deadlines.

This course will introduce students to a variety of mapping tools and GIS technologies such as Google Earth and the creation of dynamic KML files; ArcGIS Online and webmap publishing; GIS fundamentals with geospatial data creation. Students will be able to apply their GIS skills in their reference work, in digitization projects, in webpages, in library instruction, and more. Through hands-on exercises, pre-recorded demonstrations and lectures, students will receive a thorough overview of mapping resources that will enhance and expose their library’s resources, as well as help them achieve their own personal goals.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop geospatial information literacy skills
• Gain an understanding of map and GIS collections and services
• Learn to use a variety of Geographic Information Systems tools
• Learn the difference between types of geographic information, how to find them, how to use them, and how to critique them
• Be exposed to and appreciate a variety of different types of geographic information that are used for mapping, analyses, and interpretation

Target Audience:
Everyone

Prerequisites:
None

Homework Expectations and Completion Requirements:
It is designed for individual participation; each individual must register.

Learning is done by doing. This course has up to two assignments in weeks 2-4. Although they won't be graded, feedback will be offered.

This course will be using software that is compatible with PC and Mac. Specific software installs include Google Earth, and optional is GIS open source program QuantumGIS (QGIS).

Week One Podcast includes:

• Introduction
• Examples of GIS used in daily activities
• Types of Online Mapping Resources
• Intro to Cartographic resources

Tutorials: none Assignments: none Following along and self-exploration: yes Time commitment: 1.5 hours

Week Two Podcast includes:

• Citizen Mapping/Crowd Sourcing
• OpenStreetMap
• Google Earth

Tutorials: Google Earth Assignments: Google Earth Mapping and a Discussion Question (posted in forum) Following Along and Self-Exploration: Yes Time Commitment: 3.5 hours plus the time it takes to complete your Google Earth map (at least 1 hour)

Week Three Podcast includes:

• Geocoding
• GIS
• Spatial Data Formats
• Geospatial Data Online
• GIS for Desktop

Tutorials: Geocoding and Optional QGIS Assignments: None Following Along and Self-Exploration: Yes Time Commitment: 2 hours plus 2 hours for optional QGIS tutorial

Week Four Podcast includes:

• ArcGIS Online– working with CSV, KML and Shapefiles
• GIS in Libraries

Tutorials: ArcGIS Online Assignments: ArcGIS Online Following Along and Self-Exploration: Yes Time Commitment: 3 hours plus the time it takes to complete your ArcGIS Online assignment (at least 1 hour)

Technical Requirements:
None

Session Duration:
This course will be available from July 6th through 27th, 2021.

Instructor:  Eva Dodsworth - edodsworth@uwaterloo.ca

Continuing Education Credit:
Contact Hours: 0