Training Materials Plan

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TRAINING MATERIALS PLAN

The training materials developed under this project are for sub-city urban indicators, as well as some training in GIS software (particularly for our partners in Guatemala City). The emphasis is on future maintenance and updating of the indicators database developed for each partner city, and spatial display of elements of the database over the web. In consultation with our international partners, we have developed the framework of the training module, which consists of the following elements:

Linking data sets with maps
A module including basic GIS concepts, particularly the link between spatial data in map form and tabular data from a database. (Spanish only)

	spatial data objects (polygons, lines, nodes, points)
	flat files - notion of observations and variables
	relational database concepts
	dbf format and translation to/from SPSS and Excel
	metadata for spatial objects
	metadata for tabular data

Digitizing
A module including step-by-step procedures and instructions for digitizing existing paper maps. (Spanish only)

Map projections
A module including an overview of major projection and coordinate systems. (Spanish and Chinese)

	geographic coordinates
	UTM projection
	Other projection systems
	Choosing the right projection
	Distortions of shape, area, distance and direction
	Making area measurements

Scale
A module including the concept of scale and its relevance to GIS data. (Spanish and Chinese)

	definition of map scale
	scale of source materials in a GIS
	converting between map scales
	errors resulting from scale changes
	generalizing map elements at smaller scales

Data integration
A module including methods and procedures for merging data from different sources to a common base. (Spanish and Chinese)

	projection and coordinate system conversion
	scale considerations
	joining attribute tables
	spatial joins

Aggregation/disaggregation of spatial data
A module including methods and procedures for aggregating data from smaller to larger areas and for disaggregating from larger areas if necessary. (Spanish and Chinese)

	working with original raw data sources
	statistical methods of aggregation
	area and population bias in aggregate spatial data
	approaches to disaggregation
	errors resulting from disaggregation

Map design
A module including principles of map design for effective graphic presentation. (Spanish and Chinese)

	types of maps - dot maps, choropleth, contour, flow diagrams, etc.
	elements to be included
	symbolization of punctiform, linear, and areal objects
	background information and audience
	contrast
	balance
	use of color
	presentation media

Analysis
A module including methods and procedures for analyzing causes, effects, and trends. (Spanish and Chinese)

	tracking changes over time
	spatial relationships such as spatial correlation and accessibility
	analysis of hazardousness and precariousness
	estimating potential damages from rare events
	estimating potential impacts of improvement programs
	optimal location of services