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Map and GIS information sessions scheduled for spring 2017

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Three spring 2017 Penn State University Libraries informational sessions offering introductions to map and geospatial information systems (GIS) applications are scheduled for faculty, staff, students and visitors. No registration is required. Sessions are available in person and remotely via Adobe Connect.

Additionally, one-on-one geospatial consultations are available through the Statistical and Geospatial Services Data Learning Center booking site.

Sessions will be held in the instructional room of the Donald W. Hamer Maps Library, located across from the entrance to the collection, services, and reference area:

—Thursday, Feb. 9: Getting to Know SimplyMap, Social Explorer, and PolicyMap, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Donald W. Hamer Maps Library, W13 Pattee Library, University Park, and on Adobe Connect.

PolicyMap, SimplyMap, and Social Explorer are mapping applications available by subscription via the University Libraries. These web-based mapping platforms enable the user to use, visualize and create map outputs in multiple formats. This workshop will consist of a series of presentation slides highlighting the key features, data sources and display capabilities of each mapping application. Following the presentation materials, participants will complete a hands-on portion to gain experience navigating each application. Participants are encouraged to create a map using each application at the end of the session.

—Thursday, Feb. 16: Getting to Know GIS: GIS Literacy, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Donald W. Hamer Maps Library, W13 Pattee Library, University Park, and on Adobe Connect.

This session will introduce participants to GIS concepts that form the foundation of working with spatial data. GIS topics will be discussed without reference to a specific software package. Participants will gain a greater understanding of GIS concepts, introductory concepts to different data models, manipulation, and analysis techniques.

Thursday, Feb. 23: Introduction to ArcGIS Online, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Donald W. Hamer Maps Library, W13 Pattee Library, University Park, and on Adobe Connect.

This session provides an introduction to ArcGIS Online, a web mapping application which can be used to communicate many spatial research interests across the disciplines. Participants will explore applications created with ArcGIS Online and work with a sample dataset for Centre County, Pennsylvania, to learn the functionality of ArcGIS Online web maps and applications. The ArcGIS Online Gallery features examples of the application.

For additional information, or if you anticipate needing accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Tara Lalonde at 814-863-5753 or tll38@psu.edu in advance of your participation.

Last Updated February 16, 2017

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