Making Maps that Matter: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems. 4 credits. (Same as…

Catalog description

Geographic Information Systems-or GIS-refers to the technology used to store, edit, analyze, and present geographic data. This course will introduce students to both the technical and conceptual sides of making maps that matter. Weekly labs will teach the technical skills necessary for using geographic data to create maps. ln addition to the technical skills, students will lead weekly book club and "mappy hour'' discussions that will foster critical thinking about how GIS and maps are used in society. These readings will emphasize the importance of place and space to a range of contemporary social and environmental issues including poverty, pollution, crime, and racial injustice. Students will apply what they've learned in a semester-long mapping project to raise awareness about a social or environmental problem in a place of their choosing.