Assignment - Portfolio

General Guidelines

Over the course of the semester, students will individually create a portfolio showcasing their work, including maps, analyses, and presentations. The portfolio consists of three progressive sections, each building upon the previous work. Students will develop and share their portfolio using Google Sites.

For each section, students must:
(a) Submit a link to their webpage, which includes both the interactive map and a written description of the map (and geospatial analysis if applicable).
(b) Present their work in class, narrating the geospatial story behind their map.

The in-class presentation should not simply describe the map but explain its significance: Why does it matter? Who is the audience? How can the map be used? Students must identify their intended audience and tailor their presentation to their priorities.

Components of Your Submission (Webpage)
  • Project Introduction: A brief overview of the motivation or context for the project and the key question or problem it addresses.
  • Audience Description: A concise summary of the intended audience, their role, and why this GIS analysis is relevant to their interests.
  • Interactive Map: At least one well-designed interactive map embedded within Google Sites or ArcGIS StoryMaps. The map should:
    • Follow cartographic principles (appropriate symbology, clear labels, and correct projections).
    • Be easy to interpret for the intended audience.
    • Include interactive features (pop-ups, layers, etc.), if applicable.
  • Data and Methods: A clear explanation of data sources, including their origin, relevance, and the methods used for data processing and analysis.
  • Key Findings (if applicable): A summary of the most important insights derived from the analysis, explaining how these findings are relevant to the audience and address the project's key question.
Evaluation Criteria (Based on both the Webpage and the Presentation)
  • Audience Identification (5%): Clear and thoughtful identification of the hypothetical audience, including their role and priorities. Demonstrates how the map and analysis address their specific needs or decision-making processes.
  • Interactive Map Quality (30%): A well-designed, polished, and visually appealing map that adheres to cartographic principles. Interactive features, such as layers and pop-ups, are effectively utilized to enhance understanding and usability.
  • Storytelling & Insights (35%): A compelling and coherent narrative that highlights key findings and clearly communicates the purpose and value of the analysis.
  • Explanation of Data & Methods (20%): A clear, concise explanation of the data sources, including details such as units, methods, and analytical approach. Avoids unnecessary jargon while maintaining technical accuracy.
  • Delivery & Engagement (10%): Confident and professional presentation with enthusiastic delivery. Effectively engages the audience using clear visuals, thoughtful questions, and strong communication techniques, fostering discussion and interest.
Assignments % of Final Grade Due Date
01 Building the Basics
 15% 02/12 12pm
02 Your Signature Map
 25% 04/16 12pm

# Part 1

Map Fundamentals: Building the Basics

Each student should select a dataset of interest and create an interactive map using geospatial analysis tools available in ArcGIS, Python, or QGIS. The map should be embedded within a webpage that includes a written component describing the geospatial visualization and analysis.

Skills and Knowledge Focus:
  • Understanding geospatial data structures and formats.
  • Applying cartographic principles (e.g., projections, symbology) for clear and effective visualization.
  • Utilizing GIS tools like ArcGIS, geopandas, Folium for map development.
Components to Include in Your Webpage Submission
  • An interactive map showcasing at least one key feature (it can be point, polygon, or line data).
  • A written explanation (about 2-3 paragraphs) that includes:
    • Project introduction and purpose.
    • Audience description and why they might be interested in this geospatial visualization.
    • Details about data source, scope, and units.
    • How you visualized the map.
    • How you plan to use the data in the future.
In-Class Presentation
  • Students do not need to prepare presentation slides unless they choose to.
  • Instead, show your webpage and explain the written components verbally. Do not read the written components verbatim. This is an opportunity to practice communicating your geospatial analysis—have fun!
  • The presentation should last about 4-7 minutes.
  • Students are expected to ask at least one question during the class. This will be evaluated as part of participation. Refer to Syllabus - Grading & Feedback 3. Participation (b) Presentation Engagement.
LLM Statement:
  • Students are required to submit an LLM statement for this assignment.

# Part 2

Final Project: Your Signature Map

The culminating project involves solving a complex real-world problem using advanced GIS techniques. Students will apply clustering analysis, spatial regression, or optimization techniques to create a signature map that demonstrates technical and analytical proficiency.

Skills and Knowledge Focus:
  • Applying advanced GIS techniques, such as clustering and spatial regression.
  • Tailoring GIS solutions to specific audiences, including policymakers or community stakeholders.
  • Communicating findings effectively through a narrative and polished, interactive visualizations.