KINT 8135 - Introduction to mapping with Quantum GIS (QGIS)

The overall objective is to equip students with basic technical skills to create custom maps using a free and open-source mapping software (QGIS). Students will acquire the technical skill to visualize what is happening where. Mapping provides an interesting alternative to Excel or statistical software thereby exploring a new dimension of data. The course will teach students the basics of mapping, finding and understanding different geospatial data, visualizing data in line with standards and understanding how to analyze data. The course will explore how this visual data can support national policies, humanitarian programmes, environmental policies, international security and development work, among other applications.
Learning Outcomes
1. Explain what types of data are used in a map and where to find them
2. Import, export and visualize spatial data within QGIS
3. Create custom maps with custom styles and export them in multiple formats
4. Create maps independently in line with their individual concentrations
5. Analyse data using QGIS

Professional Skills
Ability to independently manipulate Quantum GIS to create custom maps
Analysis of spatial data using QGIS

Danielle KITCHINGMAN-ROY

Séminaire

English

- In Class Presence: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
- Online learning activities: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
- Reading and Preparation for Class: 2 hour a week / 24 hours a semester
- Research and Preparation for Group Work: 15-20 hours a semester
- Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester

Computer: Macbook, Windows or Linux (no Chromebooks), ability to download QGIS on their computer and access to quality internet for remote classes

Spring 2024-2025

Individual assignments (50%) A series of short assignments (6 to 8 total) after certain classes that will tests students' ability to put learning into practice (tests: finding relevant spatial data, repeating steps learned in class, structuring spatial data to communicate a key message, building custom maps)
In-class assignment (20%) A one-hour assignment will be given half-way through class to test learning up until that point and ensure basic understanding of creating a map is acquired. Students will be asked to create a map based on a case study and have one hour to complete the task. The in-class assignment will take place after the required steps have been learned during individual assignments and that students have received feedback; this assignment will therefore also test students' ability to integrate the feedback into their work.
Group work (30%) Prepare and teach the class one function of QGIS (tests: independent learning of new skills on QGIS, predicting questions that students will have, collaborating with team members, facilitating a group of learners, explaining a new concept)

Individual assignments will be a one-week turn around as the content in the class builds on itself; the assignments seek to consolidate learning before passing onto a more complex step.
The group work will be graded during presentation with initial feedback after the class via email and a grade integrated into each students'

Feedback will be given via email following the individual assignments and in-class assignment before the next class. Group work feedback will be given within a week of presentation via a grouped email to the entire group.