GIS: Geographic Information Systems for Sustainability
Master geographic information systems for sustainability challenges through hands-on spatial analysis and visualization of environmental data.
Master geographic information systems for sustainability challenges through hands-on spatial analysis and visualization of environmental data.
This introductory course teaches how geographic information systems (GIS) can address complex sustainability challenges through spatial data analysis and visualization. Students learn fundamental GIS principles through the lens of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum covers how to monitor environmental issues, identify spatial trends, perform forecasting, optimize decision-making processes, and effectively communicate findings to diverse stakeholders. Through instructor-led lectures, interviews with sustainability professionals, and hands-on exercises using real-world data, students develop technical competencies in map creation, multi-criteria analysis, overlay techniques, and digital storytelling. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to guide organizations in implementing spatial analysis for sustainability practices that increase public awareness, empower communities, and support evidence-based decision-making.
Instructors:
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What you'll learn
Learn how GIS are used for solving complex environmental and sustainability problems
Analyze spatial data to visualize and assess sustainability issues
Learn to engage stakeholders using geospatial visualizations
Gain insight on the importance of GIS for environmental decision-making
Develop skills in multi-criteria analysis and suitability mapping
Create compelling spatial narratives through digital storytelling
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
4 Hours PreRecorded video
4 assignments
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Batch access
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There are 4 modules in this course
This comprehensive course introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a powerful tool for addressing sustainability challenges. The curriculum is structured around four key modules that progressively build technical skills while exploring practical applications. Students learn how GIS helps monitor and assess environmental issues, identify spatial and temporal trends for forecasting, solve complex multi-layered problems through overlay analysis, and create compelling visualizations to engage stakeholders. Each module combines theoretical concepts with practical exercises using industry-standard software and real-world datasets. The course features interviews with sustainability professionals who demonstrate how GIS is applied in various fields including urban planning, conservation, and policy development. By the end of the course, students will have developed hands-on experience with fundamental GIS techniques and understand how spatial analysis can support sustainable decision-making across sectors.
Module 1: Monitor, Identify, Assess Sustainability Issues
Module 1 · 6 Hours to complete
Module 2: Identify Trends and Perform Forecasting
Module 2 · 4 Hours to complete
Module 3: Solve Multi-layered Issues and Optimize Decision Making
Module 3 · 3 Hours to complete
Module 4: Communicate with / Engage / Empower Stakeholders for a Sustainable and Just Future
Module 4 · 4 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
Instructors
Lecturer in Program in the Environment and Geospatial Data Sciences
Dr. Kim Diver is a geographer and lecturer at the University of Michigan, specializing in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their applications to issues like climate change and social justice. Her research integrates fieldwork and GIS to study the impacts of human-environment interactions and global environmental changes on the distribution of insular plant species. With over two decades of university teaching experience, Dr. Diver focuses on environmental and geospatial topics, equipping students with the skills to analyze spatial data for sustainability and advocacy.
Lecturer in Geospatial Data Sciences
Shannon Brines is a lecturer and manager of the Environmental Spatial Analysis Laboratory at the University of Michigan. He specializes in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis, providing workshops, consultations, and conducting research projects. With over two decades of experience as an applied geographer, Brines integrates spatial technologies into environmental studies and sustainability efforts. He teaches courses such as GIS for Natural Resource Applications, Python for Geospatial Data Science, and Field Remote Sensing. Beyond academia, he owns Brines Farm LLC and actively contributes to sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and conservation initiatives.
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Frequently asked questions
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