Workshops

UMass Amherst Libraries Workshops (Self-Paced / Asynchronous)

This is a list of workshops that are regularly taught in the Libraries and are available anytime for self-paced, asynchronous learning.

Learn the Basics of QGIS – learn the basics of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including coordinate systems, types of geospatial data, and where to look for data online. The tutorial focuses on the local city of Holyoke to find out how its demographics have changed over time.

Create a StoryMap – get started with storymapping with Esri’s ArcGIS StoryMaps. The workshop focuses on how to create an engaging StoryMap outline, log into the ArcGIS Online platform, create a new StoryMap project, add content, and publish and share your StoryMap.

Georeference a Historical Map – learn how to georeference historical maps and photos using the free and open-source mapping software, QGIS. The workshop is geared toward folks with a basic understanding of GIS concepts. If you have no prior experience, you may want to complete the Learn the Basics of QGIS tutorial first.

Make Maps with U.S. Census Data – learn how to access Census data directly from the U.S. Census Bureau’s website. In the first half of the workshop, you’ll learn about the different types of Census data and how to explore the data spatially from your web browser using interactive web maps. In the second half, you’ll learn how to download data tables and geospatial files to your computer so you can make maps with the free and open-source mapping software, QGIS. A tutorial gives you a chance to practice working with Census data on your own.

Design a Static Map – learn how to create a visually appealing map that you can print out or export using the free and open-source mapping software, QGIS. After discussing best practices in cartography and analyzing a selection of curated maps, the workshop shows how to use the QGIS Print Layout to design a map that is accessible, reproducible, and easy to read. The tutorial uses sample data from Erving State Forest to design a custom trail map. 

Design an Open-Source Web Map – learn how to create a free, interactive web map using the open-source mapping software, QGIS, and the QGIS2Web plugin. After designing a map and generating the web map files, the workshop shows how to deposit the files in a GitHub repo and publish the web map to a live URL that you can share. A sample dataset showing sunset times across the U.S. can be used with the exercise tutorial.