Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Assignment: Short Paper: GIS

In the early years of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, mapping was largely limited to public works, and then in the 1990s and early 2000s, expanded to be used in crime analysis and public health. Now, GIS information can be used to display a wide variety of information, and its use is no longer limited to public works and urban planning. We even have a GIS specialization here at Walden do to the increase in popularity.

For this Assignment, you will consider a problem that you think a map can solve for making a decision, but the main idea is to have some fun creating maps and gain some experience in selecting and using map layers.

For this Assignment, you will explore the use of GIS in the public sector.

To prepare:

Review the Learning Resources to learn about how GIS technology can be used in the public sector. Review the common terminology handout related to GIS. Create any map of your choosing. Use any of the base maps and layers you wish. You can use the software ArcGIS, Carto, Map box, or one of your choosing.

When you have finished creating your map:

Write a brief paper (3-5 pages) about your experience in creating a map with GIS technology software. Include a section that explains the problem or situation you explored, an evaluation of whether the map was useful for making a decision/solving a problem, and difficulties encountered, if any. If possible, include an image of the map within your paper.