Quick Links
Upcoming Events and Workshops
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3/12/25
11am-noon Zoom
IPUMS Data: Accessing Census and Geographic Information
Rescheduled from 3/3: In this workshop, participants will be introduced to IPUMS (Integrated Public Use Microdata Series), that provides access to Census data as well as geographic information from the past and present. We will cover the types of data available, how to navigate through these datasets to find the information you need, and download them for use outside of IPUMS.
Workshop Goals:
Learn how to access and explore U.S. Census data and geographic information on the IPUMS platform.
Understand how to customize and download datasets from IPUMS for analysis and research purposes.
Please register to receive the Zoom link!
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3/17/25
1-2pm GIS Lab
Mapping Elevation Data: Using GIS for Landscape Analysis
In this workshop, participants will use ArcGIS Pro to classify raster elevation data, gaining insights into landscape features such as terrain, slope, and elevation zones. They will learn how to process and analyze raster datasets for detailed landscape analysis.
Workshop Goals:
Learn tools in ArcGIS Pro for landscape analysis.
Gain skills in analyzing terrain features.
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4/8/25
10-11am Zoom
Mapping Food Deserts: Using GIS for Community Health
In this workshop, participants will use ArcGIS Online (AGOL) to conduct proximity analysis, mapping food deserts and assessing access to food in underserved communities. They will learn how to identify areas lacking grocery stores and other food resources, supporting efforts to improve community health.
Workshop Goals:
Learn how to perform a proximity analysis.
Gain experience using ArcGIS Online for analyzing and visualizing data.
Please register to receive Zoom link!
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4/14/25
10-11am GIS Lab
Mapping Urban Tree Canopy: Using GIS for Sustainability
In this workshop, participants will use LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data in ArcGIS Pro to classify and map urban tree canopy (UTC), gaining insights into the distribution of trees. LiDAR data, which uses laser pulses to measure distances and create detailed 3D models of the landscape, will be used to accurately assess tree canopy cover and its contribution to sustainability efforts.
Workshop Goals:
Learn how to classify and analyze LiDAR data.
Gain skills is assessing the role of urban trees in sustainability, including environmental and climate benefits.
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4/23/25
1-2pm GIS Lab
Machine Learning & Image Classification in GIS
In this workshop, participants will learn how to use machine learning to classify land types (e.g., urban, forest, water, agricultural) from satellite images. We’ll cover data preparation, feature extraction, and applying classification algorithms. By the end, participants will be able to apply machine learning to classify land cover in ArcGIS Pro. Please note this will not be an introductory workshop to ArcGIS Pro. It is recommended to have some prior knowledge of ArcGIS Pro.
Past Events and Workshops
GIS Day Archive
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The Art of Cartography: Historical Maps for Modern Inquiry
November 18th-22nd, 2024
Presented by Vanderbilt University Libraries' GIS Lab in collaboration with Special Collections and University Archives with support from The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise & Public Policy.
Join us during Geography Awareness Week and GIS Day for a series of events that highlight the artistry and significance of historical maps! We explore how historical maps can inform our understanding of cultural heritage and the narratives they convey about local communities. Learn to work with historical maps as primary sources and discover how to integrate them with geospatial tools for today’s research and applications.
Georeferencing Maps Workshop
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to georeference historical maps using ArcGIS Pro. This process involves aligning historical maps with modern spatial data, providing a new perspective on historical landscapes and their contemporary counterparts.
Roaming Map Exhibit
Discover a curated selection of historical maps displayed throughout the campus libraries. These maps offer a window into the past and invite viewers to reflect on the intersection of geography, culture, and art. Track down all 10+ maps using our interactive app and learn more about the stories behind each historical piece. A fun scavenger hunt experience awaits as you explore!
Digitizing Map Features Workshop
This hands-on workshop will guide participants through the process of digitizing features from historical maps using ArcGIS Pro. Participants will learn to capture and vectorize map elements, such as rivers or streets, for use in modern geographic analyses.
Map Exhibit Reception
Step back in time with maps dating from the 17th century! This reception gathers all the maps on display from our roaming exhibit throughout the campus libraries, including depictions of Native lands in Tennessee, maps of Havana, Paris, and the renowned Blaeu maps (donated from The Collection of Stephen and Carina Bruce). Held at Peabody Library, the reception will include drinks, snacks, and an overview of the exhibit delving into the art of cartography.
Maps as Primary Sources
Uncover the value of maps as primary sources. This session will explore what are primary sources, how to read and analyze historical maps, interpret the symbols and narratives they convey, and understand their cultural significance. Perfect for anyone curious about the stories that maps tell and the contexts in which they were created!
