This course takes a problem-oriented approach to the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and related tools in archaeology. We will cover concepts, case studies, theoretical issues, and analytic techniques useful for addressing particular kinds of questions about the relationships among archaeological sites and between people and the land they inhabited. Topics include catchments and resource use, travel and transport over terrain, visibility, hydrology, locational modeling, and networks and spatial syntax. Students may choose to participate in an optional lab component on ESRI ArcGIS software or to work with Idrissi and AutoCAD. It is expected that students will have taken Archaeological Data Analysis II and be familiar with techniques for the acquisition and management of spatial data, the use of vector graphics, rasters (including map algebra), and spatial statistics. The course pairs well with ANTH 2541(Regional Settlement, Communities, and Demography), and students are encouraged to take the courses sequentially.

The goal of this course is to gain expertise in the methods of Geographic Information Systems using the GeoTRANS and ArcGIS software packages on PC based workstations. No previous computer classes are required. Students will be graded on the basis of approximately 5 computer assignments, in-class exercises, a project, and final exam. This course is a core course for the GIS Certificate. Combined course with GEOL 2449

Introduction to geographic information system (GIS) concept and technology including spatial data sources, spatial data models and structures, spatial database management, map projection systems, geocoding and georeferencing, spatial analysis, spatial data visualization (maps), GIS applications (e.g., address-location finding, navigation, routing), and commercial GIS software packages.

This course introduces the fundamental principles of geo-spatial analysis using ArcGIS Desktop and Microsoft Excel. It will focus on teaching students the principles of GIS through computer-based exercises and projects. Exercises will train students in acquiring, analyzing, mapping , and managing geospatial data in order to address predominately urban problems. An emphasis will be placed on bridging the gap between performing geo-spatial analyzes using GIS and designing readable and understandable outputs . Exercises and projects will be centered on topics and applications relevant to urban studies, political science, sociology and economics. These include, but are not limited to: Urban planning, housing, education, and public administration.

Step by step instructions on how to use the software

Ressources of online GIS trainingmaterials

An excellent collection of GIS guides and tutorials, including various software and data sources

Provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

An ESRI tutorial on their next-generation, place-based, story-telling tool.

Guides and links compiled by UC San Diego Libraries

Tutorial by Pennsylvania Spatial Data Access Center (Pasada)

Tutorials provided by ESRI

Complete training manual for the open sources software QGIS

Access through my.pitt.edu. Online technology training available to all students, faculty, and staff through a partnership with lynda.com.

Every course on Coursera is taught by top instructors from the world’s best universities and educational institutions. Courses include recorded video lectures, auto-graded and peer-reviewed assignments, and community discussion forums. When you complete a course, you’ll receive a sharable electronic Course Certificate.

Founded by Harvard University and MIT in 2012, edX is an online learning destination and MOOC provider, offering high-quality courses from the world’s best universities and institutions to learners everywhere.

Udemy is a global marketplace for learning and teaching online where students are mastering new skills and achieving their goals by learning from an extensive library of over 45,000 courses taught by expert instructors.

A list of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offered for free by the best universities around the world.

Free QGIS Courses offered through The GeoAcademy, which is an independent consortium of GIS educators dedicated to promoting the use of open source software for geospatial technology education