Introduction To GIS Using ArcGIS Course

Course Overview

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool used for computerized mapping and spatial analysis. This course introduces GIS concepts and ArcGIS tools, teaching participants how to visualize real-world features, discover patterns, and communicate information. Through hands-on experience with ArcMap and ArcGIS Online, participants will work with GIS maps, explore data, and analyze maps and data while learning the fundamental concepts that drive GIS technology.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• New Users: Individuals new to GIS who want to grasp the basics.
• Data Editors: Professionals involved in data management and editing.
• GIS Database Designers: Those responsible for creating and maintaining GIS databases.
• GIS Managers and Analysts: Managers and analysts who use GIS for decision-making.
• Map Designers: Creators of maps for various applications.
• GIS Technical Leads: Leaders who guide GIS projects and teams.
• GIS Desktop Application Developers: Developers focused on GIS software applications.

Course Objectives 

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Find and organize geographic data and other content for a mapping project.
• Display features on a GIS map and access information about them.
• Perform spatial analysis to answer questions.
• Share GIS maps and analysis results.

Course Outline

Module 1: The ArcGIS Platform

• Introduction to ArcGIS: Overview of the ArcGIS platform and components used in the course.
• Getting to Know ArcGIS: Familiarization with the platform's capabilities.

Module 2: The Basics of GIS

• GIS Applications: Explore how GIS applies to various fields.
• ArcGIS Online: Learn to sign in, choose base maps, and add data files.
• Map Sharing: Save and share your map with others.

Module 3: Understanding GIS Data

• Turning Information into Data: Convert geographic information into GIS data.
• GIS Data Models: Explore different data models in ArcMap.
• Working with Tables: Manage and document your data effectively.

Module 4: ArcGIS Online

• GIS Services and Web Maps: Explore content and applications available online.
• Browsing Content: Navigate ArcGIS Online for web and desktop content.

Module 5: The Importance of Coordinate Systems

• Understanding Location: Learn about geographic and projected coordinate systems.
• Spatial Properties: Understand spatial distortion and coordinate system identification.

Module 6: Acquiring and Selecting GIS Data

• Obtaining and Accessing Data: Methods for acquiring GIS data and evaluating its quality.

Module 7: GIS Data Management

• Gather and Evaluate Data: Consider the data needed and examine existing data.
• Data Integration: Add data from different sources and import shapefiles.

Module 8: Interacting with a Map

• Symbology and Visualization: Modify map symbology and identify features.
• Map Navigation: Explore and interact with maps using ArcMap and ArcGIS Online.

Module 9: Performing Spatial Analysis

• Spatial Analysis Techniques: Learn about geoprocessing and common analysis tasks.
• Analyzing Data: Perform spatial analysis to solve geographic questions.

Module 10: Sharing Results

• Sharing Content: Export maps as PDFs, create map packages, and publish online.
• Web Mapping Applications: Customize and save maps for online sharing.

This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring participants gain the skills needed to apply GIS technology effectively in their fields.