Chapter 1
This chapter first introduces a variety of background information on ArcGIS Online. ArcGIS Online is accessible to anyone on the web and is prominent in government, business, and daily life. The five main types of content in Web GIS include data, layers, tools, web maps and scenes, and apps. This was an interesting difference from ArcGIS Pro, because while the mapping features are similar on both softwares, Web GIS has the addition of web maps, web scenes, and apps. The tutorial of this chapter introduces me to feature layers and services. Feature layers can be hosted or nonhosted. Hosted features are when you create a web service based on ArcGIS managed data while nonhosted features are for situations when a web service connects directly to user managed data. In this chapter tutorial, I used hosted features. I was introduced to a variety of elements in ArcGIS online that included adding attachments to layers, how to add and edit fields, symbology, how to create an instant app, and a variety of back navigation tools. The chapter finished by offering answers to a variety of commonly asked questions. I found this section to be extremely helpful because if I were to ever have problems with a concept from this chapter, the information is all in one place.
Application Idea: I would create a map of my school’s campus from back home. There are a variety of buildings located in close proximity to each other that include the high school, middle school, agricultural building, technology building, central office, and a variety of sport complexes. These buildings would serve as my points. I would include attributes such as name, longitude, latitude, address, and year built.
Chapter 2
This chapter continues to focus on feature layers and web apps. The chapter first introduces the idea of smart mapping. Smart mapping includes maps such as color and size, dot density, compare A to B, predominance, and several others. I was then introduced to ArcGIS Arcade. Arcade is an expression language used to style, label, and add values to pop-up menus. Finally, the chapter provides context for Story Maps. Through receiving advice on functionality and what should be included, I was informed on how to make a professional, yet interesting story. The tutorial in this chapter walked me through the process of configuring layer styles and creating a story through StoryMaps. While configuring layer styles mostly consisted of symbology, I did run into an issue with ArcGIS Arcade. My problem consisted of not being able to add the percent sign in the expression editor. I eventually fixed it by retracing my steps and learning I forgot to put quotations around the percent sign. While I remembered some of the information about Story Maps from GEOG 291, the tutorial served as a useful refresher.
Application Ideas: I would create a map that compares the percent change in annual rainfall throughout the United States from 2000 to 2025. From a personal standpoint, I have learned about the changing weather patterns and feel like the area I live in receives more heavy rainfall events. I would use the above and below theme and a color gradient to represent the percent change. The story would be focused on explaining the changes in precipitation and why they are happening.