Education & Training

RGIS - Educational Modules, Great Lakes

Accessing Geospatial Data

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About This Module

There is a large quantity of geospatial data available on the Internet. For example, geospatial data can be found on many agency websites, as well as in geospatial portals.  As a result, finding needed data and determining whether it can suit a particular purpose can be a challenge.  This module is intended for relative novices to GIS.  It is designed to offer an introduction to accessing and searching for geospatial data on the World Wide Web.  We provide a brief introduction to the issues that are relevant in evaluating a data resource – scale, coordinate system and datum, documentation, quality, format, and so forth.  The course then presents students with an overview of geospatial data initiatives and geospatial resources on the Web. Many live links are included to encourage individual exploration of the websites.

Module Audience

This module is for GIS users who would like an introduction to finding and working with geospatial data resources available on the Internet.

Module Materials & Tools

The handbook includes a comprehensive description of the material and additional material beyond what is included in the PowerPoint presentation. It can also be used as a stand-alone document. Sections of the manual are:

  • Introduction (including Geospatial Data and Considerations)
  • Exploration of Example Data Sharing Initiatives
  • On-line Tools for Viewing Geospatial Data
  • Additional Examples

A PowerPoint presentation allows the material in the user manual to be presented to others. It is meant to be very inclusive; therefore, the instructor may wish to present only a subset of the included examples. The presentation includes live links to websites, as well as screenshots, in case the instructor has Internet connection difficulties. All of the files can be downloaded as one compressed .zip file at the top of this page - CLICK HERE to jump there now.

Module Software & Hardware Needs

Although only a computer is needed to complete this module, an Internet connection enables viewing of the websites.

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Mozilla Firefox Internet browser or Microsoft Internet Explorer and a high-speed Internet connection

For More Information Contact:

Steve Ventura, University of Wisconsin
LICGF - University of Wisconsin-Madison
B102 Steenbock Library, 550 Babcock Drive
Madison, Wisconsin 53706
Email: sventura@wisc.edu