Introduction of Mapping, Spatial Data and GIS Course.

Introduction

Investigate the power of maps and spatial data to document and illustrate local and global issues. Learn how to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the world around you and share ideas. This IRES course will help participants apply GIS principles and tools to create your own maps from freely available online spatial data.

Discover the diverse uses of mapping, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data, and how they underpin decision-making in every aspect of our lives. Explore and critically appraise maps to gain a better appreciation of the world around you. Learn how to use free open-source software (Quantum GIS) to import, display and analyze spatial data. Collect and integrate spatial data from a variety of sources. Experience realistic tasks in the context of international case studies, which range from resource management, wildlife conservation and leisure hiking to archaeology and disaster relief. Apply your learning to create maps, which illustrate your own interests or hobbies, based on sound cartographic principles.

Duration:

10 days

By the end of this course, participants will be expected to have gained the following skills:

• Locate and acquire online data relevant to their personal interests.
• Import their own data into a GIS from GPS, hard-copy maps, digital imagery, shapefiles, and XY coordinates.
• Manage the spatial references of different data sources to align them within a GIS.
• Manipulate and interrogate layers in a GIS.
• Create basic maps with the elements necessary for readers to interpret them.

  Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be expected to understand:

• The diverse ways in which spatial data and GIS analyses are applied to help people better understand the world around them.
• How they might source, edit and use spatial data in their own context.
• Good practice for managing spatial data.
• The definition of projections, datum’s and coordinate systems, and how knowledge of these allows different data sources to be mapped together.
• The importance of metadata to record the source of data, and the degree of precision and uncertainty of spatial or attribute data.
• The difference between raster and vector data formats, and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
• The difference between a GIS layer and the data it represents.

Course Outline

Module 1: What Are Spatial Data and Geographic Information Systems?

• Exploration of the pervasiveness of maps and spatial analysis in our world
• Consideration of the use of maps in the media
• Installation of GIS software and initial steps in displaying spatial data

Module 2: Who Uses Spatial Data, Maps, and GIS, and What For?

• Examination of GIS applications across different industries and leisure activities
• Illustration of the power and versatility of maps and GIS through case studies
• Exploration of patterns, such as osprey migration routes, in a wildlife case study

Module 3: Understanding Spatial Reference Systems

• Learning how to refer to the spatial location of objects on the earth's surface
• Translation of spatial locations to a flat map
• Viewing and overlaying data from various spatial reference systems based on a case study

Module 4: Representing Spatial Features

• Differentiation between discrete spatial objects and continuous surfaces
• Understanding vector and raster data formats
• Hands-on practice with both data types in a case study

Module 5: Interpreting Maps

• Interpretation of symbols, contours, and scale on a topographic map
• Navigation using a compass

Module 6: Working with Raster Layers

• Exploration of the use of remotely sensed imagery to visualize environmental patterns
• Manipulation of raster layers in a disaster relief case study

Module 7: Working with Vector Layers

• Generation and editing of vector data through hand-digitizing
• Addition of non-geographic information to new layers

Module 8: Introduction to Symbology and Cartography

• Exploration of the art of cartography
• Discussion on communicating messages to specific audiences
• Modification of map features to identify spatial patterns

Module 9: Making Maps

• Understanding key map elements (scale bar, legend, graticule)
• Application of cartographic principles in a case study to create and export maps

Module 10: Introduction to Spatial Analysis

• Exploration of GIS beyond map-making
• Concepts in spatial analysis to create new data, identify patterns, and support decision-making

METHODOLOGY

The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.

All facilitation and course materials will be offered in English. The participants should be reasonably proficient in English.

ACCREDITATION

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with an Indepth Research Institute (IRES) certificate certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).

TRAINING VENUE

The training will be held at IRES Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.

All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.

ACCOMMODATION AND AIRPORT PICKUP

Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training Officer.

Email:[email protected].  / [email protected]. 

Mob: +254 715 077 817/ +250 789 621 067

TAILOR- MADE

This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our IRES Training Centre or at a convenient location.

For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 715 077 817.

Mob: +254 792516000, +254 792516010 or mail [email protected]

PAYMENT

Payment should be transferred to IRES account through bank on or before start of the course.