Introduction to statistics production with the use of geographical information systems (GIS) - 2024

INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS PRODUCTION WITH THE USE OF GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS (GIS)

Course Leader

Svein Reid 

Target Group

The course is introductory, for persons with none to some practical experience in GIS/ GI/ cartography, wanting to learn the basics in using GIS for statistics production and analysis.  

Entry Qualifications

• Sound command of English. Participants should be able to make short interventions and to actively participate in discussions.

• Basic computer skills.
• None to a little knowledge of GIS, but with plans to use GIS in their work.

Objective(s)

• To provide the participants with a basic understanding of how to produce statistics with the use of geocoded statistical registers and map databases. Emphasis is on the use of Vector data and Vector tools, but we will also touch into the use of Raster tools and Raster data. We will be using the Open Source GIS-tool QGIS.  

Contents

• Introduction to geodata and GIS 
  - What is GIS?  Spatial data models (Vector/Raster),  
  Coordinate systems, Topology, Quality
• Getting to know QGIS
• Statistics and Geodata, the greater picture 
• Thematic mapping:  
  - Map elements and cartographic theory 
  - Creating a thematic map in QGIS
  - Interactive <> static maps
• Vector Grid statistics:
  - Basics and Production line for aggregated approach 
• Introduction to Spatial Analysis:
  - Geoprocessing, Network analysis, Raster analysis. 
• Automating our GIS-processes, introduction:
  - Scripting in Python 
  - Graphic  Modeler

Expected Outcome

The participants should have a good understanding on how to integrate geography in the statistical production.

Training Methods

• Lectures and Presentations
• Hands-on exercises in QGIS using pre-recorded video tutorials. 
• Assignment­­
• Exchange of views/experiences

Required Reading 

“A gentle introduction to GIS” :chapters 2, 3 & 4
English version 
https://docs.qgis.org/3.28/en/docs/gentle_gis_introduction/

Suggested Reading

“A gentle introduction to GIS” :chapters 5 - 11 
English version 
https://docs.qgis.org/3.28/en/docs/gentle_gis_introduction/

Explore http://www.efgs.info/ and especially “information base”

Required Preparation

We recommend that participants bring and use their own laptops at the course, with QGIS already installed.

• QGIS software is completely free.
• Download and install version 3.28.x or newer  (Long Term Release version), from https://qgis.org/en/site/forusers/download.html#
• All course data and video tutorials (~2 Gb) will be shared with the participants before the course, and must be downloaded before course start. Detailed instructions will be sent to the participants. 

Statistics Norway will provide course laptops for participants if need be, but will need prior notice.

Trainer(s)/
Lecturer(s)

Svein Reid, Statistics Norway 

Erik Engelien, Statistics Norway