Geog 1502: Mapping Our World

Course overview

In Mapping Our World, we learn about maps and other spatial technologies like phones, drones, and GPS . We use professional web-based tools to make maps for class, jobs, and fun. Along the way, we see how mapping is a way to see interactions between technology and society, and see how spatial technology saves lives, rigs elections, and spies on you and everyone else.

Key features

• The course is fully online and uses readings, lectures, activities, and labs.

• All materials are free, including an online textbook, labs, and mapping tools that you can use in courses, your job, or for fun.

• The course is worth three credits. There are no prerequisites. 

• Help is available via office hours every weekday.

• Fulfills two Liberal Education (LE) requirements: Social Sciences Core and the Society and Technology Theme.

Grading, format, and workload

Grading. We focus on participation via activities, labs, and two online exams:

• 20% Class participation through activities

• 50% Online labs with web mapping and other technologies

• 30% Quizzes (online, open-book, and multiple choice)

Class Format. All parts of the class are online:

• 30% Lecture and other material

• 20% Discussion

• 20% Small group activities

• 30% Mapping labs

Workload.  In addition to lectures, discussion, activities, and labs noted above, the course involves:

• 15 pages of reading per week (but lots of pictures!)

• 5 pages of writing per semester