Overview
In this exercise we will take a dataset collected with an AREN TerraROVER and UHIP, and import it into QGIS. QGIS is a powerful Geographic Information System (GIS) application that allows you to process and analyze spatial datasets both on their own, and in relation to other spatial datasets through the use of layers.
Resources
Symbolized data using QGIS soSware
Technology required
Computer with QGIS installed, Spreadsheet software (MS Excel, Google Sheets, Apple Numbers, or LibreOffice Calc), Data collected with a TerraROVER and Urban Heat Island Instrumentation Package (UHIP).
Setting
- Classroom
- Indoor
Handout
Lesson Duration
- 1 class period
Participant Group Size
- N/A
Analysis Type
- Descriptive
- Quantitative
- GIS
History of development and implementation of this learning activity
- N/A
Cause and Effect
Exploring how different factors, when viewed geographically, influence outcomes. Systems and System Models: Creating and analyzing geographic models to understand how different parts of Earth's systems interact.
NGSS Science Standards
There are no direct NGSS standards for GIS. Instead, GIS helps to address the standards in the following areas:
Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs): GIS is a powerful tool for developing skills such as:
Analyzing and Interpreting Data: Students can use GIS to analyze spatial data, such as population density or climate patterns, to identify trends and patterns.
Developing and Using Models: GIS allows students to create and manipulate digital models of geographic phenomena, helping them visualize and understand complex systems.
Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking: GIS involves various mathematical calculations and spatial analysis techniques, directly supporting this SEP.
Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs): GIS can be used to teach concepts in various Earth and Space Science (ESS) DCIs, such as:
Earth Systems: Analyzing maps to understand Earth's surface features or patterns of weather.
Earth and Human Activity: Examining how human activities, like urbanization or deforestation, impact the environment on a geographic scale.
Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs): GIS is particularly useful for illustrating CCCs like:
Patterns: Identifying spatial patterns in data to understand natural processes.
Cause and Effect: Exploring how different factors, when viewed geographically, influence outcomes.
Systems and System Models: Creating and analyzing geographic models to understand how different parts of Earth's systems interact.
