Introduction to Geospatial Data and Software

This event will cover the basics of understanding and working with geospatial (GIS) data for research. We will start with an introduction to spatial data, how it can be used effectively and in what contexts. We will then move into a small practical tutorial to work with real world data and software.

The session will be in two parts with a short break in between. The first (open also to online attendance) will introduce spatial data and software, focusing on open source software and accessible data. This will give a good overview of the situations and contexts where spatial data is beneficial. The second part of the session will give students hands-on practical working experience, using real world GIS data, learning to load, work with and visualise the data. We will finish by creating bespoke maps to showcase this data and discussing the limitations and a critical reflection on drawing conclusions from spatial data.

Outcomes

Participants in this workshop will:

• Develop an understanding of GIS data and software, and how it is used in practice for research;
• Look at some of the core real world applications of geospatial data across different disciplines;
• Learn to visualise and do some exploratory data analysis on different geospatial variables;
• Learn how to produce bespoke maps and visuals of your GIS data.

Contributors

Dr Jacob Macdonald is a Lecturer in GIS and Spatial Analysis with the School of Geography and Planning, University of Sheffield, and Deputy Director of Advanced Data Analytics (ADA) for the WRDTP. Previously, he worked as a research geographic data scientist developing and promoting accessible data products. His work focuses on visualising and working with urban data products and models.