In this foundational week, you'll be introduced to the core concepts of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). You'll explore the distinction between spatial and non-spatial data and gain an understanding of vector and raster data types. Key topics such as coordinate systems, projections, and the essential differences between ArcGIS and QGIS will also be covered. You'll set up both ArcGIS and QGIS, familiarizing yourself with their interfaces and functionalities, laying the groundwork for your GIS journey.

you'll dive into the art of map creation and data visualization. Learn how to build simple maps using both ArcGIS and QGIS, adding layers and customizing symbology to bring your data to life. You'll also explore labeling features and working with layer properties to enhance map clarity. This week also covers map design best practices, including creating layouts and print templates in both platforms, and how to export your maps for professional reports and presentations.

This week focuses on mastering vector data, which forms the backbone of many GIS tasks. In ArcGIS, you'll learn how to add and edit shapefiles and geodatabases, digitize points, lines, and polygons, and manage attribute data. You'll also explore spatial joins and relates to combine datasets effectively. In QGIS, you'll work with shapefiles, edit vector layers, and manage attribute tables, with a focus on techniques like buffering and clipping to analyze spatial relationships and refine your data.

This week focuses on mastering vector data, which forms the backbone of many GIS tasks. In ArcGIS, you'll learn how to add and edit shapefiles and geodatabases, digitize points, lines, and polygons, and manage attribute data. You'll also explore spatial joins and relates to combine datasets effectively. In QGIS, you'll work with shapefiles, edit vector layers, and manage attribute tables, with a focus on techniques like buffering and clipping to analyze spatial relationships and refine your data.

This week delves into advanced geospatial analysis techniques in both ArcGIS and QGIS. In ArcGIS, you'll explore buffer and overlay analysis, network analysis, and proximity analysis to uncover spatial relationships and patterns. In QGIS, you'll learn how to conduct spatial queries and analysis, utilize the powerful Processing Toolbox for data manipulation, and perform raster calculations and zonal statistics. Additionally, you'll gain skills in topological analysis, enabling you to assess spatial integrity and connectivity within your datasets

Week 7: Geocoding, Georeferencing, and GPS Data This week focuses on the key GIS techniques of geocoding, georeferencing, and working with GPS data. In ArcGIS, you'll learn how to convert addresses into point data, utilize online geocoding services, and georeference scanned maps to align them with GIS data, including rectifying images and rasters. In QGIS, you'll explore using OpenStreetMap for geocoding and georeferencing historical maps. Additionally, you'll gain hands-on experience with importing and processing GPS data, enabling you to work with real-world location data for more precise analysis.

In the final week, you'll apply the skills you've learned throughout the course to tackle a real-world GIS problem. Choose a relevant project such as land-use mapping, environmental monitoring, or urban planning, and use ArcGIS, QGIS, or both tools to conduct the analysis and create maps. You'll also focus on effectively presenting your results, learning how to export and share your maps through online platforms or print, ensuring your GIS outputs are communicated clearly and professionally.