Summary and Schedule
This is a new lesson built with The Carpentries Workbench.
| Setup Instructions | Download files required for the lesson | |
| Duration: 00h 00m | 1. Introduction to Data Visualization |
What is data visualization and how does it differ from simply displaying
charts? Why do humans process visualized data so much faster than raw numbers or tables? What are the advantages and risks of using visuals in data analysis? How does visualization help when working with big data? Which tools are most suitable for beginners, intermediate users, and advanced programmers? What makes a visualization “good” versus “misleading”? |
| Duration: 01h 15m | 2. Cartography Checklists |
Who is the primary audience for your map? What message or story are you trying to communicate? Which data attributes are most important to show? How will your audience interpret or react to your map? What medium will your map be presented in (web, print, presentation)? Will your map be used to inform decisions? What does your audience already know, and what do they need explained? Do you need more data to support your map? Do you fully understand the topic you are mapping? |
| Duration: 02h 30m | 3. Fundamentals of Map Design |
What is a map and what makes it effective? How do visual hierarchy and design influence interpretation? How should colors and symbols be used in maps? What are map scales and projections, and why do they matter? What are common thematic map types and when should you use them? Should your map be static or interactive? How should data be classified for choropleth maps? |
| Duration: 04h 15m | 4. Acquiring Vector Datasets from Data Repositories |
What kinds of vector data already exist online and where can I find
them? How do I evaluate whether a dataset is accurate, current, and appropriate for my needs? How do I download and bring external vector data into QGIS? |
| Duration: 05h 15m | 5. Getting Started with QGIS: Your First Map |
How do I load spatial data into QGIS? How can I add different types of vector data — shapefiles, CSV files, and live OSM data — to a map? How do I style and symbolize data to communicate clearly? How do I build and export a finished, publication-ready map layout? |
| Duration: 07h 00m | Finish |
The actual schedule may vary slightly depending on the topics and exercises chosen by the instructor.
Refer to First Steps - Part 2
You can find it here.
Note: No additional Setup Steps are required! Move onto the content below.