Maps and GIS
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a computer system used to store, display, and analyze spatial information.
GIS can help us answer basic and not-so-basic questions about the world around us. Users are able to analyze vast amount of information and reveal relationships between datasets and how they relate to the real world. This is a form of data visualization that readers are able to interact with and explore on their own terms. It is often seen as a catalyst for working across disciplines – using data that is location based (spatial) – and is flexible enough to be employed in a wide range of scenarios. For more information, check out our Library Guide for GIS & Geographic Information Science.
How is GIS used at St Olaf?
GIS and mapping projects are used for research in many departments at St. Olaf! Many classes use Story Maps as a way to create interactive presentations – this platform can tie media and content to locations on a map to give users a real-world reference point. However, it is not required to use maps! Story Maps is an excellent, low-stakes application for creating interactive online presentations in many forms.
GIS in the Digital Humanities on the Hill Initiative.
Story Maps are frequently used to curate stories and create virtual exhibits:
Special Collections Virtual Exhibits
The Hong Kierkegaard Library Digital Exhibits
Interested in trying out GIS or ArcGIS Story Maps for a project? Reach out to the IT Helpdesk and request a consultation.
Do I have to be in a course to use GIS at St. Olaf?
It is not required to be in a class! If you’re interested in using it for an independent study, for professional development, or even for a personal project – as long as you have any active St. Olaf account, you can use the GIS software and resources at the college.
Where can I get access to GIS software on campus?
ArcGIS Pro Desktop is installed in the GIS Lab in RNS 400 and in the DiSCO (Windows computers).
To access the lab, contact Paul Jackson or Charles Umbanhowar. Priority for lab usage is given to students in the Biology department and individuals enrolled in the Remote Sensing course.
Anyone on campus is welcome to use ArcGIS in the DiSCO! These computers are available during Rolvaag Memorial Library hours.
Who should I call to install or upgrade ArcGIS on my computer?
St Olaf College maintains a site license for ArcGIS Advanced, and migrates to new versions of ArcGIS in a timely manner. Licenses are managed by the Information Technology (IT) department and we are able to install ArcGIS software on any college-owned Windows desktops, laptops, labs, or classroom machines. If you would like the software installed, contact the IT Helpdesk.
Currently, we do not install ArcGIS software on personal computers. ArcGIS software is not compatible with MacOS, however, ArcGIS Online is a browser-based program and can be used on Mac.
What GIS software is available at St Olaf?
ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro Desktop, and Google Earth Desktop are available to anyone as long as they have an active St. Olaf account. For data collection and GPS work, St. Olaf uses ArcGIS Field Maps (ArcGIS Online application). For additional information on available GIS and mapping resources, contact the IT Helpdesk.
We are able to install QGIS on college computers and personal computers, but there may be limited support for this software.
**ArcMap and ArcGIS Collector have been deprecated by ESRI and are no longer supported at St. Olaf.**