Geography 292: Geospatial Analysis with Web GIS

Chapter 1: The first chapter highlights what GIS is all about, and what it is most commonly used for. Government agencies, business and research centers ahve all started using GIS for different applications. The tutorials were fairly easy to get through. I was able to access all of the data and complete the steps as necessary. The most interesting thing I found in chapter 1 was being able to add attachments to popups on a map. I understood most of the instructions because a lot of it was taught during GEOG 291 as well. Tutorial 1 had me create a new item and learn how to put it into a new folder, add photos and share my item publicly. 1-2 was about adding fields to my layer editing the data for the fields. 1-3 allowed mee to familiarize myself with both the content and settings toolbars and what each button does. I symbolized the  points and created popups. In the last tutorial I created an instant web app , as well as showing me the different views for the maps and how to publish the map to the public.

Chapter 2: The beginning of the chapter talks about different types of layers and what their most common uses are. It also goes over the basics of Pop ups and ArcGIS Arcade which is an expression language that allows you to display information where there is no attribute field. I also learned all about StoryMaps which I find to be the most interesting use for Web GIS as it can be used for so many different things and is so easy to understand. 2-1 was about geocoding to create a feature layer. The second tutorial was on symbolizing in different ways and how to use different effects. 2-3 was about creating and editing pop ups on a map by creating expressions. 2-4 allowed me to add new content to all of the popups . The fifth tuorial was on how to create a story from start to finish and the last one was on using swipe blocks and express maps.

For chapter 1 an application I could create is landmarks throughout Delaware County or its Key Attractions. For Chapter 2 I would choose to create a feature layer on current unused agricultural space in the county.

Chapters 1 and 2 provided a solid introduction to Web GIS and how it’s used to share and work with geographic data online. I learned how systems like ArcGIS Online make it easier for users to create interactive maps and apps. Chapter 1 explained how Web GIS has evolved and how it connects different components like data, servers, and users into one system. The tutorial showed how to create a basic web map app that displays points of interest, which helped me understand how Web GIS apps are structured.

In Chapter 2, the focus was on smart mapping and the role of feature layers. I learned how these layers let users visualize data in meaningful ways and how maps can be styled to highlight different patterns or trends. The tutorial in this chapter showed how to use population data to build a map that tells a clear visual story. One thing I’m curious about is how to decide which symbology or mapping method works best for a given dataset? Are there general rules, or is it mostly up to the user?

Geog 291 Application

To apply what I learned, I created a simple Web GIS app using population data from Delaware County. I used smart mapping to show areas with higher or lower populations. This kind of app could help explore local demographic trends or support planning decisions. It was a good way to practice using hosted layers and the map styling tools introduced in the chapters.

In Chapters 1 and 2 of Getting to Know Web GIS, I was introduced to the foundations of web GIS and how it connects with the broader digital geography ecosystem. I learned how ArcGIS Online is not only a mapping platform but a full suite of tools that supports interactive mapping, data sharing, and spatial analysis through the web. What stood out most was how easy it is becoming for non-experts to engage with spatial data through intuitive interfaces and web apps.

Chapter 1 discussed the growth and importance of Web GIS in the modern world, with examples across government, business, education, and environmental fields. Chapter 2 covered the basics of creating web maps, publishing data layers, and configuring pop-ups and symbology. I appreciated the real-world examples that showed how GIS is used to solve spatial problems and communicate stories effectively.

Application Idea Based on Chapters 1 & 2

Using the Delaware Data from Geog 291, I’d like to create a web map showing broadband access gaps across different counties. I could layer internet speed data, demographic information, and educational access points to highlight areas where underserved communities may lack reliable internet. This could be useful for policymakers or school districts trying to allocate funding for digital access programs.

Getting to Know Web GIS (2022, 5th edition)

Chapter 1

Web GIS is accessible and versatile with many ways for information to be shared and utilized by various organizations. The five main content types of web GIS: data, layers, tools, web maps and scenes, and apps (basemaps, operational layers, and tools are basic components). 

Depending on where the underlying data is stored, feature layers can either be hosted or nonhosted.
Hosted: A web service is based on ArcGIS- managed data (data is stored in ArcGIS Online cloud database or ArcGIS Data Store)
Nonhosted: A web service connects directly to user-managed data (data is stored and managed by an organization)

Workflow for Building Web GIS Apps = Data sources, desktop tools, ArcGIS Online/ArcGIS Enterprise, client apps

Attachment Viewer is an instant app template that allows the user to quickly build an app that presents spatial data with a feature-by-feature browsing experience and image-based display.

Chapter 1 – App

 

Chapter 2

Feature layers are the most common type of operational layers and hosted feature layers are the most widely used operational layer. Hosted feature layers, hosted Web Feature Service (WFS) layers, hosted tile layers, hosted vector tile layers, hosted Web Map Title Service (WMTS) layers, hosted scene layers, hosted image layers, and hosted map image layers are all all types of hosted layers that can be published to the Esri geospatial cloud. To publish a hosted feature layer, a user could create a feature layer from their own data, create a feature layer from an existing template, or create an empty feature layer and define their own fields interactively. 

Smart mapping uses intelligent defaults, data-driven visualizations, and innovative workflows to allow the user to share professional-quality maps easily and with minimal cartographic or software skills. 

ArcGIS Arcade allows the user to build custom expressions based on existing fields and geometries the way that Microsoft Excel allows the user to write formulas to work with their spreadsheet. 

ArcGIS Living Atlas provides basemap, imagery, boundaries, people, infrastructure, and environment content categories.

The types of blocks (components used to build a story) include sidecars, slideshow blocks, map tours, swipe blocks, and timeline blocks.

Chapter 2 – Story Map

 

Application based on ideas from Chapters 1 & 2

I could create a Flood Resilience Planning App to help Delaware County officials and residents see how new infrastructure projects might be affected by flooding. Delaware data layers like floodplain boundaries, road networks, parcel data, and elevation contours would visualize areas prone to flooding and how developments might be impacted. Users could explore “what-if” scenarios, like whether a proposed road expansion could become a flood hazard or if a new neighborhood is at risk. Interactive tools could allow users to click on specific locations to see flood risk levels, past flood events, and property ownership details.

Chapter 1 and two of the web GIS book introduced the basic and benefits of web GIS this combined web technologies with geographic information systems. The systems were global access, cost effectiveness, cross platform compatibility, and most appealing to me ease of use web GIS revolutionized spatial data analysis to where it is now used in just about every facet of life i.e. government industry, science and daily life chapter 1 focused on the key elements like user group and content it also emphasized how web GIS data sharing can make analysis easy it introduced five core GIS components data layers tools, online maps apps, which enable dynamic spatial applications. I was familiar with some of the stuff from taking 291

Chapter 2 discussed layer types in the ESRI geospatial cloud. These features were features tile scene and picture layers, and it showed how these layers could be used to create high-quality maps. I also found it interesting how arc GIS arcade allows the tailoring of layers and pop up appearances and how the capabilities enable users to interpret data better.

Hi, my name is Abbie Grogan. I am from Louisville, Kentucky and I am a Pre-professional Zoology major with a Chemistry minor. I am a junior here and I am a captain of the OWU women’s lacrosse team.

Since I took 291, I am confident in my abilities to maneuver and work through ArcGIS online. Those computers loved to give me issues last semester for the longest time, so I am very happy to avoid those now. I completed the ArcGIS Online Basics course, which introduced me to fundamental GIS concepts and highlighted the powerful features of ArcGIS Online. One of the most valuable aspects I learned about was how feature layers allow for detailed data visualization, which aids in analyzing trends across different locations. I also gained an understanding of the Web AppBuilder, a tool that enables users to create interactive applications without requiring coding skills. This makes GIS tools much more accessible to those without technical backgrounds but who still need to utilize geographic data.

The first thing I found when looking through Google Scholar was a guy named Ranjani Varaghur doing a study through Penn St University on the soil in the Big Elk Watershed area. This map is the elevation of the area he was doing his experiment.

The second map that I found was a collected list of D1 lacrosse players and where they come from. The map shows the sport has been growing nation wide as it was really only popular on the east and west coast of the US for a long time.

My name is Emily Kocel and I am a Junior double majoring in International Studies and Environmental Studies. I am from Worthington, Ohio. I love animals and have always grown up with at least two cats and a dog. I like to draw and watch TV in my free time.

I am a little bit familiar with ArcgGIS Online from taking the previous GEOG 291 course. However it was good to explore and take the time to familiarize myself with the website. I added the basic stuff to my profile like a picture. There are a lot of different courses offered in the Training tab. There are options for individuals or for organizations. I like the community section where people can share their experiences with other people using GIS.

When reading the introduction to what ArcGIS Online is, I found a lot of helpful information. It starts with just a basic overview of what it is, which is a cloud based mapping and analysis solution to make maps, and analyze data, all of which can be shared and collaborated. There are many different things that can be done using ArcOnline such as creating maps, scene apps and notebooks.

The web training ArcGIS online basics was very informative. The beginning talked about different content types, some of which I already knew such as layers. All map and web scenes have layers, each with different data. Together these layers make maps. Scenes are similar to maps except you can visualize from a 3D environment. Apps are new to me, they allow you to control how other users interact with maps and scenes.

 

I first searched up ArcGIS and deforestation.  ArcGIS Online can be used to analyze deforestation. The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) uses ArcGIS Online to monitor deforestation across the nation. They can gather real time information on activities such as mining, wildfires, and agriculture which are all drivers of deforestation.

https://www.esri.com/about/newsroom/arcnews/dashboards-help-monitor-and-abate-forest-loss-in-guyana/

 

The second thing I looked into was ArcGIS Online and water resource management. It took me to the esri website where there were  different types of water management. One that caught my attention was sewer data management. It said that Sewer Data Management can be used to map separate sewer assets, edit data, view system maps in field and office, view asset reports, and collaborate with map notes. It was developed for state and local governments, airports, ports, and rails, and for facilities. 

https://doc.arcgis.com/en/arcgis-solutions/latest/reference/introduction-to-sewer-data-management.htm

https://learn.arcgis.com/en/projects/get-started-with-arcgis-utility-network-for-wastewater/

My name is Colin Counahan. I am a Junior on the Lacrosse team. I am from the greater Columbus area. I am majoring in Education Studies and am minoring in Communications, Religion, and History. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and playing golf.

The first chapter of Nadine Schuurman’s GIS: A Short Introduction gives an insightful overview of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their impact on various fields. It begins by highlighting how GIS has become essential in modern life, influencing industries such as navigation, urban planning, healthcare, and even retail. Despite its wide use, many people remain unaware of how GIS shapes their daily lives.One keyArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025 takeaway is how GIS is more than just mapping software. It combines spatial analysis with computer science, enabling users to visualize and interpret complex data. The chapter discusses the historical development of GIS, noting its roots in cartography and its evolution through technological advancements. I found it fascinating how early GIS methods relied on physical overlays of maps, a technique that later inspired computerized systems. It shows how simple ideas can lead to groundbreaking technology. A particularly interesting point is GIS’s identity crisis. It can mean different things to different people—a tool for city planners to map zones or a philosophical framework for researchers to analyze spatial data. This versatility is a strength, but it also makes GIS challenging to define. The author does a great job of explaining how GIS bridges quantitative methods with intuitive visualizations, making data more accessible and impactful. What stood out most was the emphasis on visualization. Maps and graphs are not just tools; they’re powerful ways to uncover patterns and tell stories. The example of Dr. John Snow’s cholera map in 1854 demonstrates how visualization can solve real-world problems.Overall, the chapter effectively conveys the importance and complexity of GIS while raising thoughtful questions about its societal and ethical implications. It made me think about how technology influences our perception of the world and how critical it is to use it responsibly.

#1: My search was “wolf telemetry GIS applications”

I found an example of GIS applications in wildlife management through the study of Yellowstone wolf pack territories. This map, titled “2021 Yellowstone Wolf Pack Territories,” represents the spatial distribution of wolf packs using aerial location data. The map highlights several wolf pack territories, such as Wapiti Lake, Mollies, and Junction Butte. GIS is vital for tracking these packs, helping researchers understand their movement patterns, territory size, and interactions with prey and other wildlife. This information informs management strategies to maintain a healthy balance within Yellowstone’s ecosystem, as wolves are keystone predators.This GIS application also benefits park visitors and staff by identifying areas where wolf activity is prominent, aiding in both educational outreach and safety measures. 

Source: National Park Service, Yellowstone Wolf Project Report

#2 Crime patterns in Cleveland

I found an example of GIS applications in urban safety management through the study of crime patterns in Cleveland, Ohio. This map, titled “Cleveland Crime Density Map,” represents the spatial distribution of crime rates across various neighborhoods. The map highlights areas with higher concentrations of criminal activity, such as Downtown, Glenville, and Clark-Fulton. GIS is vital for tracking crime incidents, helping law enforcement agencies understand where resources are most needed and enabling them to allocate patrols more effectively. Additionally, this technology supports policymakers and urban planners in addressing underlying factors that contribute to crime in specific areas. This GIS application also benefits residents and community organizations by raising awareness about local safety concerns and encouraging engagement in neighborhood improvement initiatives.

Source: Neighborhood Source: Zillow

 

ArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025ArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025

Hi! My name is George Naples and I’m a junior here at OWU. I am an Environmental Studies and Geography double Major.  I’m from Youngstown, Ohio, and I enjoy collecting vinyl records and going to concerts in my free time. I also have a one year old golden doodle named Arlo!

I had some experience with WebGIS from taking 291 previously this semester. However, exploring WebGIS just to explore it was quite the refresher. I hadn’t realized all I had posted to my account. I found them immediately  as they’re displayed as soon as you open your profile. 

Looking further into the website I was drawn to the Community & Forums tab. This often helped me when experiencing issues in ArcGIS that I knew had a very simple fix. It was interesting to see the dashboard side of the forums. From my previous experience I mostly interacted with reddit-style Q&A threads. Seeing the different Q&As, updates, and alerts gave me a better understanding at how ‘alive’ this section actually is.

Reading through “Get Started: What is ArcGIS Online” I was pleasantly surprised with just how many different features there are. The ones that truly stuck out to me were the accessibility of programs like Python/the various types of ArcGIS web apps, as well as how easy it is to collaborate with others directly through ArcGIS Online. The accessibility of utilizing different apps within ArcGIS Online is incredibly convenient, allowing people to be much more productive than they would’ve been having to exit to another software. The collaboration aspect is also very intriguing. I love the functionality of Google Suites and this has the same usability.

When completing Web Course: ArcGIS Online Basics I truly enjoyed the process of how the program walks you through the software. Carrying over from the textbook, it is so nice to have instructions written as plainly as possible. The biggest issue I ran into was that I did not realize I had to click submit on the quizzes. I enjoyed the teaching style of building that was carried over from the book as well. Outside of that it was smooth sailing.

ArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03232025

For my first google search for Arc Online applications I wanted to look at something about car sales. I tried a few different searches, but I did not find anything until I started looking at car dealerships. The first Webmap I found was titled “Car Dealership Market Opportunity in the United States. This map is somewhat old, due to be retired in December of this year (2025). This map represents the market opportunity for car dealerships in the United States in 2017. It utilizes a multi-scale map, changing boundaries depending on state, county, zip code, tract, and block group.

For the second application I searched I wanted to see something about brick & mortar Apple Store locations. I came across a map that had two layers; Apple Stores, and median household income by zip code.

Hello! My name is Wasif Karim, I’m from Bangladesh, doing a double major in CS and Physics at Ohio Wesleyan University, and I am set to graduate in May 2026. I’m taking this class because of my growing interest in geography and how technology, especially GIS, can be applied in diverse fields. Additionally, this course provides me with the perfect opportunity to integrate my programming skills and problem-solving techniques into new and exciting areas. Outside of my academic pursuits, I have been working in a Fortune 500 company as a software engineering intern since my sophomore year. I’m also the current president of OWU Robotics Club where enjoying working on various robotics projects like self-driving cars, autonomous drones, and so on.

Upon diving into ArcGIS Online, I first focused on the account settings and customization options. I found the platform’s user interface to be intuitive and straightforward, which significantly streamlined my navigation through various features like profile settings, data management tools, and training resources. One aspect I particularly appreciated was the flexibility to integrate and manage multiple data layers, allowing for more complex spatial analyses. The data integration and querying capabilities within the platform are impressive, especially considering my background with data-driven applications. The connection to external APIs and the ability to leverage Python scripting for automating geospatial processes is an exciting prospect for further exploration. Additionally, I explored the “My ESRI” section, where I could track available resources and training, which aligns well with my previous experiences in utilizing online development environments.

One notable takeaway from the reading was learning how ArcGIS allows for adding different layers to maps, which not only helps visualize multiple data sets simultaneously but also enables collaboration by sharing maps with others. Additionally, I appreciated the detailed explanations in each section of the reading, which will definitely be useful whenever I need guidance on how to perform specific tasks within ArcGIS.

For my free training this week, I completed the “ArcGIS Online Basics” course. I learned about different types of web layers, their functions, and how to work with them in a more efficient manner. I especially enjoyed the hands-on practice with the platform’s map creation tools, which gave me a solid introduction to creating interactive maps and using GIS data. Here is a screenshot showing the completion of the activities in the four main sections of the course:

For my Google Scholar search (Carte de postes en eau autonome – Map of posts in eau autonome), as I was particularly interested in how GIS is used in the field of robotics and autonomous systems, areas I have hands-on experience with. One interesting article I came across was about using GIS to optimize autonomous vehicle navigation and path planning, which aligns closely with my personal project of developing an AI-driven self-driving car.

For my second Google Scholar search (Dron- loisir drone survol zones), I focused on the use of drones for recreational and environmental surveying. One article I found discussed how drones are being used for mapping and surveying various zones, including environmental and urban areas. The study highlighted how drones can capture high-resolution imagery and geospatial data, making it possible to monitor environmental conditions such as vegetation, water levels, and urban expansion over time. The integration of GIS with drone technology allows for detailed analysis and monitoring of areas that are otherwise hard to access, and it serves as a great tool for sustainable urban planning and conservation efforts. This aligns well with my interest in leveraging drones for advanced environmental and spatial analysis.

 

I’m excited to continue learning more about how GIS can complement my knowledge in programming and autonomous systems. The first week has been a great introduction, and I look forward to exploring more advanced features and applications of ArcGIS Online throughout the course.