2026-08-30 –, 608
We will explore how to use R to import, manage and process spatial data. We will also cover the use of loops to make multiple maps quickly and easily, one of the major benefits of using a scripting language to make maps.
In this 3 hour course we will introduce the idea of using scripts to make maps, rather than using a graphic interface. There are many advantages to working with a script, including being able to share your work with others, be confident that it can be reproduced easily and being able to create multiple maps quickly and easily. If you are used to working with QGIS or ArcGIS then scripting is a different way of thinking - give it a try on this course and see how you get on with it!
We will explore how to use R to import, manage and process spatial data to perform map making and analysis. We will also discuss the process of making choropleth maps including important decisions about map classification and presentation. We will show you how to use loops to make multiple maps quickly and easily, one of the major benefits of using a scripting language to make maps, rather than traditional graphic point-and-click interface. There will be some additional material on point in polygon analysis which attendees can complete after the course if they want to.
This course is ideal for anyone who wishes to use spatial data in their role, including researchers, students and
anyone who has data with some spatial information (e.g. address, postcode, etc.) which they wish to show on
a map. It is also suitable for those with experience of using a graphic GIS (e.g. QGIS or ArcGIS) who would like to learn about working with script based GIS. We will focus on the practical steps for using R and the differences to a graphical GIS system.
Participants will need to bring a laptop for the workshop. They will need to install R (4.5 or above), RStudio (2025.09 or above) and the sf and tmap libraries. Instructions for installing this will be provided.
What skills do participants require to have?:No previous experience of coding is required, although participants would benefit from some experience of using spatial data (e.g. Google Maps). Participants are expected to be able to save and locate files and understand what a folder/directory is.
Link to software source code:
I’m Dr Nick Bearman and I deliver GIS training sessions and GIS consultancy for a variety of clients, primarily focused in the academic and not for profit sectors.
I help people make use of GIS to answer their research questions, and get more answers from the data they already have.