GEOMAP Offers GIS Technology Training Sessions

The Institute for Geospatial Analysis & Mapping (GEOMAP) at Illinois State University is offering training courses on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software.  GIS software is used by a wide range of professions to analyze spatial data and visualize trends and patterns in geographically referenced information.

GEOMAP is offering “Introduction to ArcGIS I,” the premier training on ArcGIS 9.2 software, on Jan. 10 & 11, Feb. 8 & 9, April 11 & 12 and May 8 & 9, 2008.  The intensive two-day training sessions are intended for those new to GIS or those wishing to explore further their knowledge of GIS software.

ArcGIS is full-featured GIS software for visualization, creation, management, and analysis of geographic data and is made by ESRI, a leading producer of GIS technology.  For more information on ArcGIS software visit esri.com

GEOMAP is also offering “Finding and Using GIS Data,” an introductory course on GIS data sources, on March 1, 2008.  “Introduction to GPS” on May 3, 2008, will give participants a general overview of Global Positioning Systems technology.

Training sessions are conducted by GEOMAP research associate Gretchen Knapp, one of two ESRI-authorized instructors in the State of Illinois.  For registration, class availability, times, and pricing information, including corporate, governmental, and academic discounts, please visit https://lilt.ilstu.edu/GIS  Call GEOMAP at 309-438-5556, or email geknapp@ilstu.edu

Instructor-led course materials for ArcGIS I include lecture and exercise books and exercise data in digital format. Students earn an official ESRI certificate of completion and keep the course materials for reference.  ESRI instructor-led courses are eligible for educational achievement points awarded by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). Upon completion of an ESRI training course, students may submit their course completion certificates to GISCI for verification.

GIS applications are used by a wide range of professionals including geographers, planners, engineers, architects, environmental scientists, epidemiologists, market analysts and others to analyze spatial data.  Land use management, political redistricting, flood risk assessment, emergency response, transportation, marketing, public health, wildlife resource management, and crime prevention also depend on GIS.