1: Introduction to GIS and Mapping
- Page ID
- 44884
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\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)- 1.1: Introduction
- This page discusses the rise of affordable mapping tools that enable map creation but acknowledges many users struggle with design skills. It aims to enhance mapmaking skills by teaching effective use of symbols, colors, and words, primarily through Geographic Information Systems (GIS), while also addressing concepts in related technologies like remote sensing and GPS. The objective is to improve the visual appeal and clarity of maps, making them more engaging and effective.
- 1.2: Definitions Of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- This page describes GIS (Geographic Information System) as a system that integrates hardware, software, and human expertise to manage spatial data. It comprises a spatial component (maps) and an attribute component (databases). GIS effectively identifies geographic patterns and relationships, supporting analyses of locations and scenarios. Its capabilities are crucial for enhancing understanding and decision-making in environmental and urban planning.
- 1.3: Manual Gis And Computer-Based GIS
- This page discusses the evolution of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) over more than 30 years, highlighting its roots in manual practices and hard-copy maps. It references Dr. John Snow's cholera map as an early example of spatial data analysis. While modern technology has improved the efficiency and accessibility of GIS across sectors, successful application still relies on knowledgeable users.
- 1.4: GIS Education And Training
- This page discusses how GIS, virtual globes, GPS, and remote sensing are revolutionizing geography and job prospects for students. It emphasizes the difference between GIS education, which focuses on geographic concepts, and training that teaches software use. Importance is placed on practical experience through internships and research assistantships, highlighting that a combination of education, training, and relevant experience enhances employment opportunities in geotechnology.
- 1.5: Concepts
- This page explains the simplification of real-world complexity through mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). It describes features as objects or events defined by spatial and descriptive attributes, manifested as points, lines, or polygons. The concept of topology is introduced, highlighting spatial relationships like distance and connectivity among features. Mastering these elements is essential for the effective representation and analysis of geographical data.
- 1.6: Data Model
- This page discusses the two main GIS data models: raster and vector. Raster is fast and easily interpretable but may lack detail, while vector provides precise spatial representation and lower storage needs, yet can be complex and slower. The choice between them relies on specific application and data needs, as neither model is universally better.
Thumbnail: white and green state maps. (Unsplash License; Annie Spratt via Unsplash)