Now that we have created individual maps for each dataset, we can combine them into one using a template web application provided by Esri. You can use these templates to share your data in an easy-to-use format. Note: You need to be a member of the GEOG487 group to complete this section.
We will be sharing our work with the class throughout this course in ArcGIS Online. Please follow Penn State’s Academic Integrity guidelines covered in the Syllabus. (As a group administrator, I will be able to see if you created your own maps or made a copy of another student’s work).
I encourage you to view other students' work to learn and be inspired. If you incorporate any of their ideas in your own work, please list their name and map URL in your sources.
When designing maps and applications, it is best to assume that your end users don’t know where the study area is and are not familiar with the data – where it came from, what it is supposed to be used for, etc.
It is your job to point them in the right direction by crafting descriptive titles, useful captions, and helpful legends. Be nice to your audience! A good rule of thumb is to show your map to a non-geospatial friend. If they look confused, you need to revise it.
Good captions describe what a map shows AND why the reader should care.
Bad Caption – “This map shows the study area in red.”
Good Caption – “The study area (shown in red) is located near Yellowstone National Park along the border of Montana and Wyoming. The terrain consists of steep mountains and valleys, making transportation by car difficult.
That’s it for the required portion of the Lesson 2 Step-by-Step Activity. Please consult the Lesson Checklist for instructions on what to do next.
Review some of the other configurable web application templates at ArcGIS> Gallery > Apps [2]. Do you think the Swipe/Spyglass WebApp widget is the best choice to present the two datasets from our lesson? Post your thoughts in Canvas Lesson 2 Discussion.
Try This! Activities are voluntary and are not graded, though I encourage you to complete the activity and share comments about your experience on the lesson discussion board.