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Chapter 1: 

At the beginning of chapter 1, it explains the logistics of how web GIS has enabled a much wider use of the system that wasn’t necessarily available before. It also references how important GIS is as a science because of its wide use by government programs, businesses, and among many other users. There is also quite a bit of contrast from ArcGIS Pro. It was interesting to see the parts of ArcGIS broken down, like explaining datasets and layers, which seem somewhat similar to Pro we used in 291. In contrast, something new that we learned about was the apps and app features, and the different user features, which allow you to see how GIS is used in different ways. Later in the chapter, it dives into the history of webGISs and explains the differences from previously used websites versus the now-in-use web services, then continues to explain Hosted and non-hosted, which was interesting because they kind of explain (hosted) already available data to look at Vs “user managed data” (non-hosted) which, allowed for organizations to create their own data to look at using GIS. This chapter also continues to talk about 2D and 3D Mapping throughout some of the tutorials as well.

 Chapter 2:

 At the beginning of the chapter, it was interesting to learn just how many different kinds of feature layers there are in detail, along with the purpose of each one, and hosted feature layers being the most common use, which makes sense. While this chapter is focusing on hosted feature layers,s it continues to talk about the many forms of mapping we will use, starting with smart mapping. It ultimately doesn’t seem very complicated, as it works as both a function in web GIS and something you have to work out yourself, a process to decide the best functionality in properly putting together your different kinds of layers within an individual map. It was also interesting to learn about popups and ArcGIS Arcade, as they’re both individual features within maps, and I just thought it was interesting that GIS basically has its own simple Expression language. The Living Atlas serves the purpose of easily accessible information for your basempaps and layers, making finding the necessary content for whatever you need significantly easier, so it is an incredibly important part of webGIS. A few other topics that were interesting to learn about were storytelling and express maps.  

Application: I think that an application that could be really interesting is mapping wildfires to potentially see where the most damage would be within the areas, and further seeing the range of effects on surrounding areas.

Chapter 1: Web GIS allows users to share geographic information with anyone. It is also low-cost, easy to use and maintain. It has many uses, such as data management, analytics, and supporting decision-making. Each user can create and join groups, share content, and include specific metadata to help further their content reach. Data is published to web layers, which are added to web maps and scenes, which, along with tools, are used in apps. Types of data include CSV, shapefiles, and JavaScript. There are also a multitude of layer types: feature layers, vector tiles, image layers, and OGC standard layers. Web maps are 2D and scenes are 3D. They can have multiple layers. Tools perform the analytical tasks, such as geocoding and summarizing data. Apps are the map-centric programs that can be used on all devices. ArcGIS Pro is an app. There are multiple types of users: viewer, storyteller, editor, and creator. Each map is composed of basemap layers and operational layers. Basemaps provide map context, and operational layers are layers you can interact with. Feature layers are the most common type of operational layers. Feature layers have vector data and can be hosted or non-hosted. Hosted data is directly from ArcGIS. Non-hosted data is from the user. When completing the tutorial, I had a bit of trouble finding certain features because the instructions didn’t exactly match up with what I saw on my computer, but after a little bit, I was able to easily find everything. I really enjoyed being able to do this on my personal computer, and the tutorial was very helpful in using ArcGIS online for the first time.

Chapter 2: ArcGIS smart-mapping allows you to change the style of a map so it can support your message. The map styles are heat map, color and size, compare A to B, relationship, dot density, predominant, type and size, continuous timeline, and vector field. A pop-up shows geographic information and defaults to a list of attributes and values. You can format the pop-ups to be in the style that you want. ArcGIS Arcade allows you to alter data when you don’t have access to do so. It is a language written for ArcGIS to style, label, and add values to pop-ups. For example, to calculate the weekday of the crime events, you type “Weekday($feature.Reported_Date_Time)”. It is similar to Excel formulas. ArcGIS Living Atlas provides content for operational and basemap layers and has thousands of options. Stories have maps, a narrative, and multimedia (who, what, where, when, and why). In the StoryMaps Builder, there are blocks and the block palette. A block is a component in your story, such as text, image, or a sidecar. The block palette combines all blocks into a menu so you can add any block to your story. A sidecar creates a side-by-side reading experience. A slideshow block uses horizontal scrolling and allows your content to fill the screen. A map tour block allows you to create a guide of locations. A swipe block allows you to compare two maps. A timeline block creates a series of events. Express maps allow you to quickly create reference maps on which you can draw features. The tutorial was a little longer, but the result was really cool. I like the swipe map.

Application idea: I could use chapters one and two to create a story map that talks about soil attributes and how they differ on hills and near water sources. The story map would include a map with the location, texture, and elevation.

Hi, my name is Rene Villanueva Henkle, and I am a senior at OWU. This week I did the quiz and looked around the ESRI portal.

I had already put in information on my profile in 291, so I did not need to worry about that. It’s nice that there are so many resources available to new users on the ArcGIS site, and that there are many others willing to help as well. 

I’m excited to see other people’s projects on ArcGIS, I remember Dr. Merkel showed us someone’s 1:1 recreation of Middle Earth in her Folklore class, and I found that dedication fascinating. I also think that the aspect of making interactive maps that others can truly connect with is a very powerful tool. 

I had no idea that there were so many different layer types within ArcGIS, I figured that this would be a much simpler program than ArcGIS pro. I will have to spend some time learning about the apps that I can use to help make data accessible.

This map shows all subway related fatalities in NYC over a 13 year period between 2008 and 2021. I would have expected there to be much more fatalities per line within Manhattan as it is the densest area, but there seems to be the same amount of deaths along each line, no matter if in Brooklyn or Queens.

This map shows recorded emotions by travelers when on these commuter routes. The colors indicate an emotion that is shown in the legend. Hotspots are represented by a flower on the map itself. I find this way of looking at cities to be largely beneficial and can really help with urban planning by showing where problem areas are.

Chapter 1: 

Chapter one starts off with a lot of background information from GIS and a lot of the common applications that are seen in GIS. It talks about the enhanced map database going from 2-D to 3-D. Sharing with groups and different organizations has become easier with ArcGIS online systems.  For the actual activity, it was easy to follow the book to determine what specific maps and pictures/symbols needed to be created. I learned how to create an app using GIS and online software. Instead of using dots to describe the different locations within Redlands, using the government icon makes seeing the different locations easier. Within the GIS field, you also learn about these different cities and areas within the book. The only question I had with chapter 1 was what all of the things the chapter told us to do means? More on the fact of why this is helping us develop a map. Going back and reading the intro paragraphs did help with this question. 

Chapter 2: 

Starting off with chapter two, I enjoyed seeing the different colors and types of maps under the sample smart-mapping styles. Over time, I would enjoy trying to make these types of maps. Doing the actual tutorial part of chapter two was a little more difficult than chapter one because there were a lot of minute details that mattered and could not be missed for any reason. The expressions were a bit confusing, but once I re-read the directions, it made sense as to what they were actually doing for the map. 

Applications:

One idea I had was mapping out wildlife sightings in a certain location or park. This would be a good idea to visualize where the animals were seen, and also could be used as a good educational tool for others to see. 

            Chapter 1:

    Through having already done GIS 291, I felt a lot more equipped and knowledgeable on topics when going into this lesson. I understood what was happening both within the entry level maps that were made, as well as in the writing and publishing process, seeing as I had to create a project and submit projects previously in ArcGIS 291.  Chapter 1 felt like a basis level venture into working with WebGIS as a means to create maps from data, and sharing said data and information with other people so that they can learn and understand. For me personally, the instructions that are in the online book don’t fully correlate to the controls and buttons that are on the WebGIS page. It took me 30 mins trying to find the photos and files button so that I could add images and it took me forever to figure out that I just had to go to where it had the attachment paperclip icon. Talking about adding images to the maps, I actually enjoyed doing it because I think that it adds more character and design. During this chapter,  I also created an instant web map, which is something that I had done before in the previous class. I always was kind of confused on the purpose of using an instant web map, but that confusion was resolved the more I actually read and understood in the textbook and through doing the different assignments. That seems to be a running theme with me and these assignments, I am confused and whole heartedly questioning why I have to do this stuff, and then I actually read and do the assignments and I’m not as confused anymore- it’s funny and maybe even ironic (at least to me). 

            Chapter 2:

    Chapter 2 was based around uploading maps and creating “stories” essentially that pinpoints the information you are trying to get across. During this lesson, I made 2 maps using pre made data that was provided through ArcGIS. This lesson was another one that I perceived as easier because of how thorough the instructions were for making maps and adding in information. In comparison to when I had to read and follow instructions is ArcGIS 291. It felt like someone was holding my hand and guiding me through, as opposed to feeling like someone put me in a cage and wanted to see me perform. This might sound kind of drastic, but when I was doing ArcGIS 291, I felt like a monkey that was locked in a room with a typewriter and left there until they wrote the entire constitution. 

    I will say that when I was “creating a story” for the map that was created, it seemed a lot less high stakes than when I had created my last one. I’m sure this is because we’re only on chapter one of the book that teaches you how to do these things, but a lot less writing, information, and background citing (actually no citations at all) went into writing and creating the story or app that I had posted. One hiccup that I had while creating the app was the fact that the link they told us to copy and use for the video section of the project, so I just improvised and changed the link to instead lead you to the music video to “My love is mine all mine” by Mitski. There was definitely a more beneficial approach or video that I could have added, but I didn’t.  🙂

Data and applications:

    I know this has been done like 20 times over, But I would create a map using data based on the migratory patterns of the endangered monarchic butterflies. I could want to track migratory patterns based on a “kaleidoscope” or group of butterflies. Because Monarch butterfly migration is unique both in how long it is, and how many generations are included in each migration pattern, I would track both the generations, deathrates, and species variations in one region. I saw one region because I believe scaling over the entire United States or globe would definitely be too much, at least for a smaller scale map. I would create this map using a full Northern America map scope, including different pinpoint locations based on where the birthing and drop off rates are most extreme and high. These pinpoints would include locations as well as population numbers for the butterflies.

In chapter 1 I struggled a little bit finding where everything was including the files I had to download. I eventually figured out where they were and what I had to do. After that it was pretty smooth sailing there was a couple spots that I got stuck and had to look up where to go or retrace my steps. Overall, I thought it was cool to navigate through and learn where things were located at. 

Chapter 2 was more complicated and took longer to work through. It was still interesting to read about the different possibilities with using this program. I thought the geocode part was cool since I am a Data Analytics major and have taken some computer science. It was cool to see the simple code and how it performs in making things like maps. I also liked how the layers worked and how everything you do doesn’t have to be made by you. There are already made to use layers built in to make things quicker. 

An application that would be interesting based off these chapters would be making a map for fishing. I could have different spots for fishing with conditions or basic things about the area or maybe what species of fish it carries. 

Chapter 1: 

I find it interesting that the first GIS application was made in the 1960s, since I’m so familiar with it being such a technologically advanced application. It’s hard to picture it as anything other than the computerized web application that it is, which makes it intriguing to imagine it starting out as a singular computer database. This chapter did a good job of highlighting the benefits of ArcGis Online’s existence, particularly the increase in accessibility and collection of data from multiple mapping resources. It also seems to aid in the up to date nature of data, as there is a continuous inflow of data being inputted by various different studies. I thought it was nice to have a refresher on the basics of map creation, as many features are similar to desktop gis. Through the tutorial that chapter 1 had me run through, I am already recognizing the immense convenience of being able to create maps on a more mobile device rather than a PC. I would even argue that the formatting of the map curation in web format is much more user friendly and easy to navigate. 

Chapter 2: 

I find the distinction between hosted and non-hosted layers quite interesting, as it highlights the different ways the data from maps can be used. From what I gathered, hosted layers seem to be layers in which the data is all existing within the published layer, managed by ArcGIS and ready for other users to access, while non-hosted layers are published layers in which the data is managed by a user. There is a feature called smart mapping which I like the idea of, as it makes my job easier in this class. It is a user base that essentially aids in creating professional grade map visualizations without the need for expert cartography background knowledge. It can be in a range of styles and forms, such as dot mapping, heat mapping, vector field, etc. I found it interesting that there were so many strong similarities between web and desktop GIS, as many of the features being described in the chapter were aspects I was familiarized with when working with the desktop application, with one of these features being popups. I was not surprised to see storymaps mentioned, as it is an important aspect of GIS that helps share the visualizations you make. The storymaps were actually the first feature of ArcGIS that I had been introduced to while in another class. The tutorial that the chapter ends with was pretty easy to get through, using demonstrations revolving around population data as well as creating a story map. So far this formatting of GIS chapters has been much more manageable. 

Applications: 

I am heavily interested in Entomology, so I figured that I could gather data on Chinese mantids or lanternflies, as I find that those would yield some pretty interesting and valuable information to explore in spatial mapping. I could use some type of regional map, maybe limited to an area known to have one of the listed invasive species, and create a simple dot density map to display the data. Another interesting topic to look into would be Emerald ash borer sighting data and ash tree distribution, to look at the degrees of severity in different areas. I could even get more creative with the creation of that map because it would have multiple different features included. 

Chapter one introduces ArcGIS Online as an affordable and communal GIS resource that is good for both community sharing and private use cases. ArcGIS Online is an easy to learn, easy-to-use, and easy-to-maintain site that allows public access to GIS tools and programs. The author describes GIS as a tool with a large variety of applications, including government resources, businesses, scientific data, scientific research, and uses for daily life or travelers. ArcGIS Online is run by ArcGIS Enterprise, which has four components for different use cases and steps in processes. These are Portal for ArcGIS, ArcGIS Server, ArcGIS Data Store, and ArcGIS Web Adaptor. Each of these components allows for the creation and sharing of ArcGIS Online materials. This chapter also goes through some of the simple functions that ArcGIS shares on its website and were included in last week’s tutorial, such as layering, sharing features, and basemaps. A lot of the information in the tutorials of chapter one is the same as the information we gathered in last week’s tutorial.

Chapter two covers the importance of layers and the different kinds of layers utilized in ArcGIS Online services. Smart mapping, or the idea that a map should be visually proper and in the correct format for the data’s intention, is also covered in this chapter. It shows us many examples of different mapping formats and their use cases, such as pinpoint locations or gradient style maps, which can be used for displaying all the cafes of an area or the area’s predicted temperature, respectively. Labels and pop-up information are also important parts of ArcGIS online, allowing more information about a specific point to be shown when desired, as opposed to constantly obscuring the rest of the map’s data. Chapter two also goes into the importance of storytelling and how data should be displayed in the manner most appropriate to its intended audience.

Chapter 1- Web GIS uses web technologies to make GIS more accessible globally. First developed in the 1960s, GIS has evolved from a local file-based, single-computer system to a central database client/server system. Web GIS offers many advantages such as global reach, large number of users, low cost per user, cross-platform abilities, easy to use and maintain. The common patterns of Web GIS applications include mapping and visualization, data management, field mobility, monitoring, analytics, design and planning, decision support, constituent engagement, sharing, and collaboration. More and more organizations are adopting ArcGIS Online or a hybrid model with ArcGIS Enterprise. 

Chapter 2- Web layers are important because they are the building blocks of web apps which are important because they are the faces of Web GIS. This chapter discussed d=feature layers and how you can style them using smart mapping. Web layers are essentially web services that can be reused in many web maps, scenes, and maps. You should style your layers so that you can deliver the intended messages and your users can discover hidden patterns. Smart mapping enables users to visually analyze, create, and share professional-quality maps easily and quickly with minimal cartographic or software skills. 

Web layers and smart mapping enables urban planners to create 3D simulations of real world scenarios. Tools like ArcGIS Urban create 3D models to simulate zoning changes, visualize population growth, and assess housing needs. 

GTKWGIS Chapter 1

Understandably so, this first chapter gives an introduction to what GIS is. There is a LOT in this chapter. I feel like they should have either divided this information into different chapters or maybe just simplified some of the concepts, as it is almost too much information to take in. Also included with the introduction is an overview of Web GIS and some advantages. Next, the ArcGIS Web GIS platform is specifically introduced. We get some history behind how Web GIS technology has evolved over the years and an explanation of basic content types and user levels in ArcGIS software. Regarding tech evolution, I was surprised to learn about mobile GIS. Even with phones being so powerful, it seems like maps would be difficult to navigate on such a small device. A demonstration follows of how to create Web GIS apps using a Story Map Tour template. It’s very helpful to have templates that are easy to use, and help produce web apps that are just as easy to use. At the very end of the chapter, they present a tutorial on how to create a Web GIS app using ArcGIS Online that focuses on points of interest in the City of Redlands, California.

GTKWGIS Chapter 2

Zeroing in on material, this chapter focuses on ArcGIS configurable apps. I learned that apps labeled as “configurable” mean they are very user friendly and people can create them with no previous development skills. This allows for a bigger and less exclusive community so that anyone can get involved! Using software such as ArcGIS Online, Portal for ArcGIS, Esri Story Maps, and ArcGIS Solutions are mentioned, which are all configurable apps provided by ArcGIS. Before getting into the meat of the aforementioned configurable apps, the chapter provides a three step process (choose, configure, deploy) to illustrate what using a configurable app looks like. From what I can see, it looks like quite a simple process! Each app like ArcGIS Online and Esri Story Maps gets its own section to display its uses and possibilities. Similar to the end of Chapter 1, this chapter ends in a tutorial as well. I wonder if this will be a theme throughout the textbook. This tutorial teaches the reader to create an app showcasing spatial patterns of population growth in the US and then share your conclusions with the public via Story Maps.

Potential Future Applications

I am currently taking ornithology, which includes labs centered  around identifying and logging bird species. Using similar methods from these chapters, and with my data collected, I could put this data into a local/regional map and create an interactive map that allows me to pinpoint where I saw the species and add these locations to a fuller species range for tracking purposes. I could maybe encourage people to do the same either on my own app or ask people to send me their data. I’m sure researchers already use WebGIS for conservation/migration tracking work!