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.