Mapping the U.S., One Baseball Stadium at a Time

Mapping the U.S., One Baseball Stadium at a Time

 

Geographic information systems (GIS) is all about the science of where. Where does something happen? Where do patterns exist? Where can we predict an event will occur? From the study of population changes to natural disasters, from land use modeling to bike path creation, GIS lets us understand the world around us in new ways. GIS allows us to map geographically referenced data – the fancy term for anything with a locational component. See a map? It’s probably created using GIS. See a really cool looking map? It’s definitely created with GIS! The system allows anyone to turn an average question into a data reality that is functional and visually easier to understand. 

In this course, students will learn what it means to create a GIS as they map the locations from America’s favorite pastime: baseball! During the two weeks students will develop, implement, and present a final project related to the sport. They will:

  • Develop a research question
  • Determine a methodology
  • Collect data
  • Build maps
  • Analyze results
  • Communicate story results in a brief presentation
  • In addition to their work in the classroom, students will go on the road to visit the National League West champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, during the course.

    • Functional knowledge of GIS, Esri's ArcMap and ArcGIS
    • Understanding of spatial thinking and how it can be applied to academic research or a future career
    • The ability to develop, implement and present a research project 
  • Application Fee: $60

    2019 Program Cost: $4,400*

    The program cost includes:

    • Tuition for two-week, non-credit course
    • Housing for 2 weeks
    • All meals
    • Course materials
    • Use of campus recreation facilities
    • Class field trips
    • A trip to Universal Studios
    • An additional weekend day trip off campus

    The cost does not include transportation to and from the program itself, personal spending money, or other incidentals.

    For additional information about program tuition and fees and payment options, please visit our Fees Page

    *Summer 2020 costs will be available beginning in October

Applications for Summer 2020 will be available beginning November 15.