Going Places with Spatial Analysis

This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is for people who know something about data analysis and want to learn about the special capabilities of spatial data analysis. Spatial analysis focuses on location to gain a deeper understanding of data. Spatial analysis skills are in high demand by organizations around the world. You'll get free access to the full analytical capabilities of ArcGIS Online, Esri's cloud-based GIS platform. Previous experience with GIS software is helpful, but not necessary for tech-savvy problem solvers. Could you and your career go places with spatial analysis?

Section 1

Going Places with Spatial Analysis

Consider the special characteristics and value of spatial data and analysis, and then get started with ArcGIS Online.

Section 2

Understanding and Comparing Places

Watch brief lectures about fundamental topics like queries, scale of analysis, descriptive statistics, and projection. Query a layer and sum attributes to make a map showing the best locations for new mixed-use development.

Section 3

Determining How Places Are Related

Learn about vector overlay, the modifiable areal unit problem, and normalizing data for choropleth mapping. Use ArcGIS Online to analyze watersheds for water quality monitoring, and summarize the number of streetlights in a city’s maintenance assessment district.

Section 4

Finding the Best Locations and Paths

Discuss topology, site suitability, cost paths, and other key concepts. Find suitable sites for a grocery distribution center and preferable areas for cougar habitat using ArcGIS Online.

Section 5

Detecting and Quantifying Patterns

Lecture topics include density surfaces, spatial autocorrelation, and spatiotemporal analysis. Use density and hot spot analyses to visualize patterns of personal and property crimes.

Section 6

Making Predictions

Learn about spatial interaction, regression, surface analysis, and interpolation. Use ArcGIS Online to interpolate sample points and make a map showing areas at risk of long-term poor air quality.