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 LEVEL: Foundation

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?

• In this module, you will explore how maps and spatial analysis pervade our world and consider the use of maps in the media. Install the GIS software and take your first steps in displaying spatial data.

Module 2: Who uses spatial data, maps, and GIS, and what for?

• Consider how GIS is used in different industries and leisure activities. Encounter the power and versatility of maps and GIS to illustrate patterns e.g. exploring osprey migration routes in a wildlife case study.

Module 3. Understanding spatial reference systems

• In this module, you will learn how to refer to the spatial location of objects on the earth’s surface and understand how this translates to locations on a flat map. View and overlay data from a range of spatial reference systems, based on a case study.

Module 4. Representing spatial features

• Grasp the difference between discrete spatial objects and continuous surfaces, and learn the characteristics of the two primary data formats (vector and raster) which represent them. Practice working with both data types in a case study.

Module 5. Interpreting Maps

• Interpret the symbols, contours, and scale on a topographic map, and learn how to navigate using a compass.

Module 6. Working with Raster Layers

• Experience the power of remotely sensed imagery to visualize environmental patterns. Manipulate raster layers e.g. in a disaster relief case study.

Module 7. Working with vector layers

• Generate and edit your own vector data by hand- digitizing, and add non-geographic information to your new layers.

Module 8. Introduction to Symbology and Cartography

• Explore the art of cartography, and discuss how to communicate your message to a specific audience. Change the way map features are displayed to identify spatial patterns.

Module 9. Making Maps

• Learn how the key elements of a map (scale bar, legend, graticule) allow viewers to interpret your map and understand your message. Apply cartographic principles in a case study to create and export your own map.

Module 10. Introduction to spatial analysis

• Discover how the utility of GIS extends far beyond map-making. Explore concepts in spatial analysis that will allow you to create new data, identify patterns, and support future decision-making.

Course Administration Details:

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.

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