Jennifer's GIS Blog

  For week 4, we moved from learning the basics of how Python functions to using it within the ArcPro ecosystem. We learned how to use modelbuilder and how to write code necessary to complete basic geoprocessing steps like buffers and clips.  For our results we included printed comments in order for it to be possible to see what code was executing when. 1         To create the xy coordinates, I pulled from the demo code on the Add XY coordinates help page, changing variables as necessary, and adding the print GetMessages function 2         To create the buffer, I first tried using the demo code available from ESRI help, but ran into it trying to do more steps than I wanted, so I built what I wanted in model builder and sent it to the python window and used that to create the code I needed, modifying names & code as necessary 3         I returned to my model builder to h...

Navigating Google Earth for this week's exercise presented a unique set of challenges. While its accessibility is undeniably a significant advantage, the platform proved to be a less-than-ideal environment for fundamental cartographic practices. We encountered difficulties in manipulating symbology with the precision necessary for effective visual communication, struggled to layer symbols in a meaningful and hierarchical way, and ultimately found it challenging to translate geographic data into compelling and narrative-driven maps. The absence of standard cartographic tools hindered our ability to craft maps that clearly and effectively convey spatial information and insights.

For this week's mapping exercise, the objective was to create isarithmic maps illustrating annual precipitation patterns across Washington state using two different visualization techniques. While one method, continuous tone, excels at depicting the full spectrum of precipitation values, I opted for hypsometric tinting. This technique involves establishing specific value breaks to create easily interpretable categories. To further enhance the map's visual appeal and clarity, I incorporated a subtle hillshade effect, providing a sense of terrain. The underlying precipitation data originates from the PRISM analytical tool, which intelligently simulates climatological reasoning, notably the strong influence of elevation on climatic variables. Consequently, hypsometric tinting proves to be a particularly effective method for presenting this type of geographically and topographically influenced data.

This week's assignment challenged us to craft a compelling choropleth map. We focused on thoughtfully selecting a color scheme that effectively communicates the data's nuances. Beyond aesthetics, the task involved designing clear and informative legends and employing appropriate data classification methods. A key component was leveraging SQL programming to refine data presentation, allowing for targeted insights. Finally, we integrated proportional or graduated symbols to add another layer of visual information, all culminating in a cohesive and insightful map. Leveraging the robust ArcPro ecosystem, I meticulously crafted my map, with only minor refinements applied to the SVG files. To enhance visual communication, I designed custom picture symbols using open-source icons sourced from https://www.svgrepo.com/ . In a subtle yet impactful modification, I augmented the wine glass icon with a simple rectangle, lending it a fuller appearance. For the map's thematic resonance, I...

This week's laboratory exercise involved applying four common data classification methods to visualize the proportion of the population aged 65 and over within Miami-Dade County. The objective was to generate a thematic map illustrating this demographic distribution and to critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each classification approach in terms of data presentation. Furthermore, we were tasked with determining the most appropriate method for disseminating this specific demographic information to a defined target audience. For my map I chose a green color ramp from a bright green to a dark sea green, which I think emphasized the differences in the different methods employed. 

 For this week's lab, we were asked to find and critique two maps. One that we thought was a well-done example, and one which we considered to be a poor example. For my maps, I chose two different maps showing the population density of Senegal in West Africa. I chose to look at maps of Africa as I student I had previously pointed out to me how little data is available for West Africa and much of it is poorly presented. I don't think either of these maps is particularly excellent, however, one is definitely better than the other. First up is the map I think is well designed, while some features could be better, it clearly depicts Senegal and the population trends across the country in a gradient color scheme which is easy to understand. This map comes from Worldview . My Second map comes from the CIA's world factbook . While the map is not bad, the lack of scale, any kind of reference location and the color gradient which is somewhat hard to discern at different break points...

 Hi - I joined the GIS program in the fall of 2024 to formalize my GIS training after more than a decade of learning to use GIS independently. I'm an Archaeologist, with my BA and MA in Anthropology, and have worked for the UWF Archaeology Institute as a research associate since 2015. In the past few years, I have become actively involved in cemetery preservation and research. Something that you can read a little bit more about on my story map . Ultimately I am hoping to add GISP to my credentials list. Resetting a marker in AME Zion Cemetery Exploring Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta with the Association for Gravestone Studies Conference.