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Initial Publication Date: August 17, 2010 | Reviewed: January 16, 2015 (see revision history: 2 events)

GPS Data Collection

Jonathon Little, Monroe Community College

Summary
Students gather GPS data on some variable. Students map this points and overlay relevant layers.

Context

Type and level of course
Entry level GIS.

Geoscience background assumed in this assignment
not necessary.

GIS/remote sensing skills/background assumed in this assignment
3 GIS labs.

Software required for this assignment/activity:
ArcGIS 9.3

Time required for students to complete the assignment:
2-3 hours

Goals

GIS/remote sensing techniques students learn in this assignment
Entering GPS data into notepad.
Adding a satellite image.

Other content/concepts goals for this activity

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

Description of the activity/assignment

Use your knowledge of the geographic grid to collect data along a trail at MCC.

OR

Think about how you can use GIS and a GPS unit on campus to gather and map something on campus. This option will help you get started thinking the way you need to think (geographic inquiry) for your project. The second option is harder but gives you much more freedom. You will need to collect GPS data at 10 locations or more. If you choose to complete this option, you will follow part of lab A to map your data (see steps 5 to the end of lab A).
Example 1: For this lab, you could determine the latitude and longitude of every water drain, and then map it. Then, you would use this information for your first step of your project.