OSUN Online Course 2023/24: Mapping the World with QGIS

Course description:

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have evolved into indispensable tools not only within academia but also across various industries. These systems encompass a wide array of functions, including geographic data collection, storage, visualization, and analysis. The versatility of GIS technologies and their applications underscores the importance of a nuanced understanding of these tools, relevant issues, and the level of computer literacy required.

Maps are more than just visual aids; they're essential tools that guide decision-making across diverse domains. From urban planning to disaster management, maps distill complex data into clear insights. Yet, to use maps well, knowing how they're created – by blending data, map design, and technology – is crucial. The ability to understand the stories that maps tell, ensuring expertise in interpreting spatial information is equally important as having practical mapping skills.

This comprehensive course introduces participants to the fundamental concepts of geospatial data visualization through practical exercises using QGIS, the most popular free open-source GIS package. Not requiring any prior GIS experience, the course offers a foundation in spatially referenced data comprehension and essential GIS mapping principles. Through a blend of synchronous sessions and asynchronous guided individual work, participants will acquire both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills for depicting societal and environmental phenomena effectively. 

In a world filled with underutilized geospatial datasets available in various formats, researchers can greatly benefit from tapping into these resources. This course empowers participants to harness the potential of these datasets, equipping them with the ability to collect, manage, visualize, and share geospatial information.

Course aims and objectives:

This course aims to equip participants with practical geospatial data visualization (mapping) skills using QGIS. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand the foundational principles of geospatial data mapping.
• Source and acquire geospatial and related datasets for mapping.
• Develop own datasets based on different data sources.
• Create informative maps utilizing QGIS.

Course structure:

The course comprises a structured blend of activities that promote comprehensive skill development through:

• Theoretical sessions on principles of geospatial data visualization, cartography and GIS basics.
• Practical exercises on learning GIS techniques and acquire mapping proficiency in QGIS.
• Consultations with instructor.
• Independent work on course assignments. 

Course assessment:

The evaluation of students' performance in this course is based on completion of the following: 

• Practical sessions: series of maps should be developed and submitted.
• Individual project: a map project of interest to be developed and presented.