This course teaches the fundamental concepts and basic functions of a GIS, the properties of GIS maps, and the structure of a GIS database. In course exercises, you will develop basic software skills by working with ArcGIS Desktop tools to visualize geographic data, create maps, query a GIS database, and analyze data using common analysis tools.
Audience
Individuals who do not have any prior GIS education or workplace experience with GIS.
Managers and GIS support staff who infrequently use ArcGIS and need to understand how GIS fits into their organization.
Goals
Those completing this course will be able to
Understand what GIS is, what it can do, and how others are using it.
See how your organization can benefit from a GIS.
Create a basic GIS map.
Work with different types of geographic data.
Access information about geographic datasets and features.
Apply a systematic approach to analyzing data in order to find patterns and relationships.
Topics Covered
GIS overview: Functions of a GIS; Real-world applications.
Components of a GIS map: Features and layers; Map scale.
Exploring a GIS database: Attribute tables; Relationship between features and attributes; Symbolizing and labeling features based on their attributes.
Map layouts: Data view and layout view; Layout tools; Map elements; Exporting a map layout.
Understanding location: Location systems for maps and globes; Map projections; Finding location coordinates on a map; Measuring area and distance on a map.
Raster data and vector data: Representing real-world features; The geodatabase.
Geographic data: Tabular data; Working with Item Description to explore geographic data.
