Module 3- Projections and Field Maps

 

Shown are the Albers, UTM 16, and Fl Sate Plane North map projections of 

 Miami Dade, Escambia, Alachua and Polk County. 

Module 3 was a whirlwind of both hands-on data collection and a dive into the different projections. 

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ArcGIS Field Maps

This lab introduced the data collection experience in the field. Furthermore, we linked that data to ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS online, and Google Earth. Then, we analyzed accessibility and ease of retrieval analysis for each software program. 

 

The best part was going in the field after setting up our domains (conditions) for our selected features and their descriptions; all selections to be used while out in the field while collecting the data points for our features. For my specific feature, I selected stop signs in my neighborhood as it was one the coldest days of the year and the precursor to an unprecedented snowstorm in the area and stop signs are easy to run into in a small area. Nonetheless, with proper set up and planning, one could see how setting up for data collection and then execution could easily be done with Field Maps. 

 

Since the objective of GIS projects is accessibility and the ability to share, we practiced exporting our data into KML files that could be viewed on google earth by anyone without an ESRI account, and ESRI map package. Overall, the use of Field Maps is one of many forms of data collection. However, its ease of use certainly makes it an outstanding tool for use in disaster preparedness, environmental work, and much more. 

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Projections

For this lab, we learned about some of the different coordinate systems and how they relate to different map projections. A map projection is simply the flattening of a world model either from a sphere or a spheroid, to be able to see it on a flat surface. The concept of coordinate systems and how they relate map projections is a complex one, especially because there is not a single map projection that can 100% represent all points on earth. You must tailor your map projection to your research question needs.

We used the tools and the ArcGis Pro to transform one projection to another. Specifically, between the Albers, UTM, and the Florida State Plane North. Then we took a look into the slight differences between each projection, specifically variation in county areas. Once again, this drives the point home that one must use the best projection for their intended results.

Finally, we practiced our module 2 skills by putting all three projections onto one layout to show how they compare to each other. 

Projections and coordinate systems were a lot to wrap the mind around. However, it was most enjoyable to see how much information I could recall from the previous cartography lab when it came out making the layout. I look forward to perfecting my projection knowledge in the future. 

 

Module 2 - Cartography

 After reading about the fundamentals, history, and principles of cartography, we were able to dive into the module two lab. 

We began with the concept of metadata, or as I best recall, "data about the data". Metadata includes data source, data lineage, coordinate system, amongst other important information. Screening metadata ensures that our data set is reliable, updated, and from a reputable source. Remember, our maps will only be as good as our data!

The bulk of this week's module consisted of preparing a map layout and all of its components. Just as you have to think thoroughly about what type of data will be included in a map, you must think about the layout elements to present said data. Considering your data’s end use, purpose, and end user will help you pursue the most practical map layout elements such as size, orientation, color scheme and more.

We were introduced to more technical items by creating a map that pin-pointed the location of the UWF campus in reference to Escambia County and the overall state of Florida. An inset map was created to provide a “zoomed out” reference point for Escambia County amongst other Florida counties, which contained the location of the UWF campus. This was by far my favorite element of the map.

In order to practice layering of data, adding context to our map, and experiment with the different types of symbology, we added shapefiles containing Florida cities, major rivers, and the interstates. We were able to geographically restrict information from those layers via “clipping” and saving our new feature classes in our geodatabase. We learned how to add the map essentials, (cartographer’s name, title, scale, legend, north arrow, data source, border, date) to our maps. 

UWF campus location in reference to prominent cities, interstates, and major 

rivers in Escambia County. Inset map included to better locate Escambia

county within the state of Florida.

GIS allows for analyst creativity as long as it is appropriate to the data presented. For example, I used the appropriate symbology color chart provided to select the colors for my map. Escambia county is not heavily developed and displays plenty of green areas, so I opted for a light green color. For the rest of Florida counties, I used yellow to represent areas that have been developed. Light pastel colors were chosen to not distract the user from the main data points. I wanted the map to display a “zoomed in” feel between the inset and the main map so I used the same color scheme for both; except in the inset map, the green for Escambia was darker so that it stood out from the myriad of other countries. 

This creative freedom in selection of color schemes, symbology, and general layout is both the best part of GIS, but also the most difficult as all must be best suited to represent your data. Overall, we learned map layout basics, refined our symbology skills, learned how to contour layer data to fit our desired extent, and used the UWF map essentials to create a well-rounded map to identify the UWF campus. 

Module 1 - ArcGIS Overview

Hello fellow reader!

 This introductory lab laid the groundwork for subsequent GIS projects.

Throughout the lab, we were introduced to some basic terminology such as map extent, shapefiles, pane, ect.

First, we became familiarized with storage and movement of files via the use of folders alongside proper labeling of folders within the file explorer i.e. the repository (R) and the student (S) drive. I ensured to familiarize myself with Google Drive as it is the best place to store projects for easy retrieval beyond the scope of this course.

Then, we moved on to creating our first GIS Map of the course!

We became familiar with the structural layout of the ARC GIS as it relates to locating essential panes, tabs, buttons and other helpful tools within the program. 

Through application, we saw the importance of proper data storage and file pathways when we linked the ArcGIS data with the existing data folder. 

Furthermore, we were introduced to the concept of map customization via using different basemaps, differing symbology, and the different color ramps applicable. The type of data set will greatly determine the best form of customization. More to come in future labs.

We were able to solidify the knowledge of these concepts and features by simultaneously generating a rudimentary map with data on the different cities of the world, presented below.

 The concept of using different layers and organization of layers within the program to display and emphasize different data sets is the most mesmerizing part of GIS for me. This drove the point home that data could be manipulated in ways where you can see different versions of the “bigger picture” depending on how it is layered.

Lastly, we exported our maps on the proper PNG or Jpeg format and saved our projects to their respective file folders.

Overall, it was a seamless experience, and I am looking forward for more to come.