Sept. 26 - Introduction to Traditional and Smartphone GPS Data Collection & Online Mapping

This one-day introductory training will cover the basics of using a handheld GPS unit for field data collection and online mapping. Additionally, it will teach participants how to collect GPS field data with their smartphone device (iOS or Android). The skills learned are applicable to many fields of interest including land stewardship, trail mapping and management activities. Course participants will be taught how to download field data and create customized interactive online maps that can be saved, shared and embedded on websites. Specific software programs will be discussed, but this course will use software that is readily accessible and free to the public.

The course includes the following modules:

• Hands-on instruction on data collection using a Garmin GPSMap76CSx receiver.
• Hands-on instruction on data collection using an iOS or Android smart device (using free apps)
• Hands-on practice collecting geospatial field data including waypoints and tracks.
• Techniques for transferring data between a GPS receiver and a desktop computer.
• Instruction on accessing and using CT's public domain mapping data online.
• Introduction to several free software tools (DNRGPS, Garmin Basecamp, ArcGIS Online and Track Kit) to manage and display GPS data.
• Instruction on how to link digital photographs to GPS locations.
• Hands-on experience in creating interactive web maps.
• Sharing and embedding maps on the web.

Class size is limited to 16 students. Participants are encouraged to bring their own iOS or Android smart device. A few extras will be on hand for those who do not own a smart device.

Course fee is $150. Payment options include check, credit card, purchase order or transfer voucher. Mail checks to the address below. Please indicate which course you are paying for.

Please make checks payable to the University of Connecticut.

Middlesex County Extension Center
1066 Saybrook Road, Box 70
Haddam, CT 06438
Attn: Cary Chadwick