Discovering ArcGIS: Introduction to the Basics

Discovering ArcGIS: Introduction to the Basics

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will understand the basics of using ArcGIS software on your computer.

Explain the importance and relevance of GIS in today's world and how it can be used in various industries.

What do you already know about Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?

What is ArcGIS?

ArcGIS is a desktop software used for mapping, analyzing and managing geographic data.

Introduce the software and explain its purpose and potential uses.

Getting Started

To access ArcGIS, you must first install the software on your computer and create an account.

Provide students with instructions on how to download and install the software on their personal computers.

Understanding the Interface

The ArcGIS interface consists of a map area, table of contents, and various toolbars.

Demonstrate the different parts of the interface and provide a brief explanation of their functions.

Adding Data

To create a map in ArcGIS, you must first add data layers such as shapefiles, imagery, or GPS data.

Provide students with a sample data set to practice adding to ArcGIS.

Working with Layers

Layers in ArcGIS are used to organize and display data. You can change layer properties, add new layers, and adjust the order of layers.

Demonstrate how to modify layer properties and manipulate the order of layers in the table of contents.

Creating and Editing Features

ArcGIS allows you to create new features or edit existing ones to update your data.

Provide a sample data set for students to practice creating and editing features.

Adding Labels and Legends

To make your map more informative, you can add labels to features and create a legend to explain what your symbols mean.

Demonstrate how to add labels and create a legend for the map.

Saving and Sharing Your Map

Once you have created your map, you can save it as a project file or export it as an image or PDF.

Instruct students on how to save their maps and share with others.

Wrap Up

Congratulations! You have successfully learned the basics of using ArcGIS.

Summarize the main points of the lesson and encourage students to continue exploring the software on their own.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.