Author: kkaslam

Chapters 3 and 4 discuss the use of Web GIS for developing applications instead of just maps. One of the key ideas discussed in these chapters is that the map is just part of the whole application, and the application is what allows us to work with the data. Both chapters discuss the need for applications to be developed for specific purposes. In Chapter 3, ArcGIS Experience Builder is discussed as an application builder for the web. One of the key ideas discussed is that Experience Builder allows us to create applications by organizing different elements like maps, text, and tools in a specific way. This allows us to control the way users use the application. Another key idea discussed is the use of widgets. This is important because widgets provide tools like searching, filtering, and viewing the map. Another key idea discussed is the use of different screen sizes because users can use different types of devices like phones, tablets, or computers.

In Chapter 4, ArcGIS Web AppBuilder is discussed. This is another tool for building applications on the web. This tool is based on templates, which allows us to build applications quickly. This is important because we can build applications quickly by using the template. This tool is less flexible compared to Experience Builder, but it is easier to use. One of the key ideas discussed is the use of this tool for sharing the map with other people by adding tools for better interaction.

Another key concept in the two chapters is that web applications involve the integration of maps with tools that can be used by the users in the exploration of the data. The tools used will be determined by the purpose of the application. For example, the tools used in an application targeting the general public will be different from those used in an application used in the process of analysis.

An application idea based on the two chapters using my own data is the creation of a web application that can be used in the visualization of the patterns associated with sleep and the use of smartphones. The application can be created using the data obtained through the survey process. The users can be allowed to interact with the application by filtering the data based on different variables.

From the two chapters, I still have a few issues that I need clarification on. The first issue is the conditions under which it is best to use the Experience Builder instead of the Web AppBuilder. The two tools seem to be performing the same functions, although with different levels of flexibility. The two chapters have provided more understanding of the application of the Web GIS in the creation of applications that can be used in the exploration of the data in the best way possible.

One idea I have about the application of the concepts learned in Chapters 3 and 4 is the creation of a web application that will show the location of daycare centers in my area along with their ratings and capacity. I will be using the data I have about daycare centers in terms of their location, the number of children they can accommodate, and the ratings of their staff. I can create such an application using Experience Builder.

Chapter 1:

Chapter 1 is primarily focused on the introduction of the basic concepts of Web GIS and how it is different from other traditional GIS systems. In this chapter, the reader is made aware of the fact that Web GIS is not only about making maps but is more about connecting data, tools, and people through the internet. One of the major ideas presented in this chapter is that the field of GIS has moved from being static and desktop-based to being interactive and web-based, like ArcGIS Online. Another significant idea presented in the chapter is that of web GIS as a system of content, capability, and users, which is vital in the sense that it indicates the fact that GIS is not only about the application but is a complete environment in itself. In the chapter, the reader is made aware of the fact that maps are no longer only about the visualization of the data but also about the interface of the data. In the context of maps and visualization of the same, the concept of layers is presented in the chapter, where the reader is made aware of the fact that different kinds of information can be stacked and turned on and off as per the requirement of the person using the map. Another significant idea presented in the chapter is that the data can be obtained from anywhere and can be shared with anyone.

The tutorial part of this chapter assisted in this learning because we were able to learn and understand how to use ArcGIS Online. By creating maps and viewing maps, I learned that it is quite easy to combine information and display it in a meaningful way. I also learned that symbols can influence how information is interpreted. One of my thoughts while learning this chapter is how much control the user has over information being displayed. This chapter has helped me learn that Web GIS is not only about mapping. It is about communication and collaboration.

Chapter 2:

Chapter 2 is a continuation of the concepts learned in Chapter 1. This chapter is more focused on how information is visualized and analyzed. One of the main concepts learned in this chapter is smart mapping. This is a feature that helps users choose the best way to display their information. This feature is quite helpful because it does not allow users to randomly choose symbols and colors. This feature ensures that maps are more accurate and easier to understand. This chapter also shows that there is a variety of information that can be used. This information includes counts, categories, and continuous values. By using color gradients when dealing with numerical information, one can better understand such information.

Another important concept is the significance of data classification. The way data is classified can affect how it is mapped. This helped me understand that maps are not entirely objective, as they can be affected by decisions taken in the process. Another new concept is expressions. These allow users to personalize data. Even though this part was a bit hard to understand, it helped me understand how flexible GIS is in dealing with different data.

The tutorial in this chapter required more attention to detail compared to Chapter 1. Every small step, like choosing the right field or changing settings, was very important to the final result. Completing the tutorial in this chapter also showed how Web GIS tools can assist users while still offering opportunities for customization. One thing that was not clear to me while working through the tutorial in this chapter was how different map styles might influence how a person interprets the same information. This chapter was beneficial to me in terms of helping me understand the connection between visualization and analysis in GIS.

Application:

One of the applications that can be done based on the concepts learned in chapters 1 and 2 is creating a map that shows my weekly schedule. I can input my locations such as my classes, work, and home. I can also use symbols and color to represent my activities. By using smart mapping, I can visualize my schedule and see how my time is allocated to various locations. This can help me understand my schedule better and understand my routines such as how often I go to work.

My name is Kainaat Aslam and I am a senior in school at OWU. I am excited about data analysis and GIS because I believe that spatial data is something that can be extremely useful in helping us understand the world around us, especially in areas such as public health and social issues. I look forward to being able to learn more about how I can use ArcGIS Online in a practical sense.I have completed all of the assignments for this week, such as reading the course blog, completing the quiz, and making my way around my ArcGIS Online account, reading the “What is ArcGIS Online?” section, and completing the ArcGIS Online Basics course. I have already taken the GEOG 291 course, so I know a little bit about some of the basic concepts and tools. When making my way around my ArcGIS Online account, I noticed that it is a very interactive and user-friendly website. One thing that I thought was kind of interesting is that it is very customizable, especially in the profile section where it allows you to connect to training resources, forums, and the ArcGIS community all in one place. Another thing that I noticed is that it has a lot of tools and data available, so it is easier to be able to use it for projects without having to gather all of your own data.

When reading the “What is ArcGIS Online?” section, one thing that stood out to me is that ArcGIS Online is useful in that it allows users to create, analyze, and share maps in a collaborative environment. This is useful for individuals and organizations. Another interesting thing is that it allows for real-time data, and this can be useful for things such as weather and emergencies. As I went through the training in the ArcGIS Online Basics course, I learned how to make maps, how to add various layers, and how to customize my visualizations. One thing I found interesting is that I learned how to symbolize my data in different ways. Another thing I found interesting is that even though this is a very powerful tool, it is also very easy to learn how to use it, especially if I follow the tutorials. As I went through some of the other available training courses through ESRI, I found two that I think I would find interesting. One is called “Spatial Analysis Using ArcGIS Online.” I think this would help me become more proficient in using this tool for more complex analysis. The second one I found interesting is called “Cartography.” I think this is important if I want my maps to look good and be easily understood by my audience.

As I went through some of the GIS applications using ArcGIS Online, I found two interesting ones. One is using GIS in public health, for instance, by tracking diseases such as COVID-19. These maps help us track how this disease is spreading and where I am more likely to get it. The second one I found interesting is using GIS in environmental mapping, for instance, by tracking how much of our forest is being destroyed and how climate change is affecting us. These maps help us visualize some of the changes that are occurring in our environment. I found this week interesting as I got more familiar with ArcGIS Online and its capabilities, and I am looking forward to learning more throughout this course.

Another interesting application I came across is environmental mapping. An example is the monitoring of deforestation and the effects of climate change. In this case, the changes are monitored using GIS. It is possible to track changes in forest areas using the technology. It is also possible to identify areas of concern. For instance, organizations like Global Forest Watch use ArcGIS tools to analyze the patterns of deforestation. Such data is useful for conservation.

 

Sources:

https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html

https://www.globalforestwatch.org/