Foundations of GIS with ArcGIS

This unit introduces core GIS concepts and the ArcGIS desktop environment, covering file structure, data types (vector, raster, temporal, and vertical), basic cartographic principles, and methods for finding and preparing spatial data. Students practice essential workflows in ArcCatalog, ArcMap, ArcToolbox, and ArcScene—creating buffers and overlays, performing simple raster calculations, and preparing map layouts—to prepare for more advanced spatial analysis in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• analyze the structure and purpose of ArcGIS components by comparing ArcCatalog and ArcMap interfaces and organizing spatial data within a standardized file structure
• apply coordinate systems, projection settings, and data management procedures to import, verify, and prepare spatial datasets from maps, GPS, and internet sources for analysis
• demonstrate basic spatial analysis workflows by creating vector buffers (including variable-width buffers), performing overlays, and executing simple raster calculations using ArcToolbox and the Raster Calculator
• evaluate cartographic and visualization choices—including data view vs layout view and 2D vs 3D (ArcScene) presentation—to produce clear map products and assess data quality for natural resources applications