Mapping 101 with ArcGIS

Overview

A ten-week course to learn the basics of GIS technologies (Geographic Information Systems), with a focus on the industry-standard ArcGIS platform by ESRI.

As for course goals, we will be covering:

- Introduction to GIS

- Finding, Downloading, Cleaning Data

- File Geodatabases

- GIS Outputs

- Map Design

- Spatial Data

- Geoprocessing

- Spatial Analysis

We will utilize lecture, hands on tutorials in the program, readings and application with a Community Project and Partner.

Our Instructors

Evaine K. Sing is a LEED Associated Professional and registered Landscape Architect with a Masters in Public Policy and Management. She has 7 years of project management and design experience in the green building industry. Currently, Evaine works at Growth Through Energy & Community Health [GTECH] as the Director of Operations and Programming. GTECH is a non-profit that works to help communities take ownership of the challenges of growth and decline and turn them into opportunities to build capacity, make things happen and strengthen their community.

Emily Voelker graduated from University of Maryland’s Geographical Sciences Department and NASA DEVELOP’s Young Professionals program, where she led geospatial research at the Goddard Space Flight Center. She is currently a member of the Executive Class of Public Allies Pittsburgh. Through Public Allies' nonprofit leadership development, she serves as an Education and Outreach Coordinator with Community Kitchen Pittsburgh.

FAQs

What does it cost?

The course is $500. If you need to pay in installments, just let us know and we can make arrangements.

When are courses held?

Classes are held every Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at GTECH's office. The course runs for 10 weeks from March 24th to May 26th.

Is there an age limit to sign up for this course?

Generally, students should be 18+, but mature and interested students 14+ are welcome.

Do I need to buy any additional materials or software?

- All students are required to purchase the book/software package: "GIS Tutorial 1 " by Kurland and Gorr. Be sure to purchase a NEW book, as it comes with a 6-month trial of the software you will need for the course. Alternatively, if you would like to purchase a personal copy of the software, ESRI offers a personal license for $100/year though the text will still be required.

- All students should plan to provide their own Laptop and ArcGIS software for the course.This software only working in the Windows Operating System, if you have a Mac, you can run a Windows virtual machine through your Mac or try and borrow a PC.

If I don't own a laptop, can I borrow one?

There are 3 desktops on location (with ArcGIS installed) for students who cannot provide their own computer but this means you will only be able to work during the class hours.