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*RESEARCH DATA SERVICES (RDS) @ Georgia State University Library: WORKSHOPs ~ Mapping & Data Visualization (Tableau, ArcGIS, Power BI, Social Explorer)

WORKSHOPs ~ MAPPING & DATA VISUALIZATION

Tableau | Social Explorer | Power BI | GIS Mapping (ArcGIS Pro) | StoryMaps (ArcGIS)

Data Visualization Workshop Series


Data Visualization Workshop Series

Get a GSU Data Ready! Badge Micro-Credential for completing these workshops to show others your commitment to learning data skills! Learn more at lib.gsu.edu/data-ready


Tableau 1: Tableau Data Visualization - Getting Started


This workshop series introduces users to Tableau Public data visualization software.


This workshop is the second of a two-part series on Tableau. This workshop is the first of a two-part series on Tableau. This workshop will introduce users to the basics of using Tableau, a powerful data visualization tool.

Workshop Topics:

  • Importing data
  • Navigating the Tableau interface
  • Creating simple visualizations (worksheets, dashboards and stories)
  • Saving, publishing and sharing visualization

Prerequisites: None.

Workshop materials available here.


Tableau 2: Tableau Data Visualization - Beyond Basics

This workshop teaches more advanced skills for those who have familiarity with the basics of importing data and constructing basic visualizations in Tableau.

Workshop Topics:

  • Customizing worksheets, dashboards, and stories
  • Working with more complex visualization types
  • Adding calculations to graphs

Prerequisites: None.

Workshop materials available here.


Social Explorer Workshop



Mapping Census Data with Social Explorer

This workshop introduces finding and mapping demographic information using Social Explorer.

Workshop Topics:

  • Navigating the Social Explorer interface
  • Creating interactive demographic maps
  • Finding and exporting data tables

Prerequisites: None.

Power BI for Data Visualization Workshop


Intro to Power BI for Data Visualization


This workshop introduces users to the basics of using Microsoft Power BI, a powerful data visualization tool.

Workshop Topics:

  • Importing data
  • Manipulating data
  • Data visualizations

Prerequisites: None.

Software Requrements: Students may need to log into VLab from the workshop classroom computers or bring their own PC laptops in order to access Power BI Desktop.

GIS Mapping Workshop Series


GIS Mapping Workshop Series

Get a GSU Data Ready! Badge Micro-Credential for completing these workshops to show others your commitment to learning data skills! Learn more at lib.gsu.edu/data-ready


Geographic Information System (GIS) technology is commonly used by private, non-profit, and government agencies for planning and analysis involving geospatial data. This introductory workshop series aim to provide attendees with foundational information about geospatial data concepts, coordinate systems, map design, spatial analysis and geospatial landscape. The workshop will be taught using ArcGIS software to manage and analyze geospatial data, conduct basic spatial analysis, and produce maps. By the end of the workshop, attendees will be able to complete a small-scale geospatial data project which involves producing final maps using real-world data. No special background knowledge or skills are required to attend. All are welcome.

Skill Requirements: Attendance at GIS 1 prior to GIS 2 preferred.

Software Requirements for Hands-on Participation:


GIS 1: Getting Started

Workshop Topics:

  • Introduction to GIS, map design and coordination and projection systems
  • Introduction to ArcGIS
  • Working with spatial data and maps (basics):
    • Geospatial data and shapefiles
    • Mapmaking: Loading and viewing map data
    • Adding map elements: Adding legends, scales, titles, and inset maps
    • Saving and exporting maps to PDF and image files


GIS 2: Spatial Analysis and Arc Toolbox

Workshop Topics:

  • Combining databases and attribute tables
  • Using Arc Toolbox
  • Demographic mapping and choropleth mapping
  • Visualizations: point maps, heat maps
  • Subset features on a map, changing aesthetics
  • Basic spatial relationship models
  • Using Spatial Analyst Tools

ArcGIS StoryMaps Workshop


ArcGIS StoryMaps: Getting Started

  • LIVE workshops currently not offered.
  • For RECORDED workshops: Click here.
  • For ONLINE GUIDE: Click here.

This workshop is to provide a strong basis of understanding of the ESRI program ArcGIS StoryMaps

StoryMaps builds off past ESRI mapping tools by combining many of these into one more intuitive product. This workshop will include the necessary information and processes for building your own storymap project and to incorporate robust mapping products that contextualize your project. Attendees will be able to participate in creating a mock storymap to familiarize themselves with the program.

Attendees with GSU student or faculty status can use the program on personal devices to follow along virtually and will have access to machines during the in-person lesson.

Workshop Topics

  • Introduction to StoryMaps
    • Adding images, videos, audio clips, and other forms of media
    • Creating a theme
    • Express Mapping
    • Swipe tool
    • Guided tour tool
  • Incorporating maps into your story
  • Introduction to ArcOnline (as it pertains to StoryMaps)
  • Interdisciplinary Storytelling
  • GIS Storytelling

Prerequisites: None.