GIS and Data Support

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) offers support services in the areas of GIS, data analysis and visualization, and research data management. We strive to foster GIS and data literacy at Trent. Our vision is to build a strong, interconnected community of students, staff, faculty and partners who are empowered to leverage the power of GIS and data to enhance learning, teaching and research experiences across all disciplines. We can

  • drop by your class, event or meeting to deliver a custom overview of our collections, resources and services
  • offer one-on-one appointments and research consultations in person or online
  • develop in-class or asynchronous training materials to build data literacy and management skills
  • deliver workshops on specialized topics in GIS, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and research data management. 

Visit our Contact Us page to book an appointment or request online help.

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) offers customized learning opportunities and literacy programming to support the use of GIS and data resources at Trent. 

Class Visits

MaDGIC can develop and deliver instructional sessions to support students or research teams with completing course assignments and conducting research. Staff and faculty who are interested in scheduling course-integrated sessions or developing custom learning opportunities are encouraged to connect with Tracy Sallaway, Research Data Services Librarian to discuss their needs.

Workshops

We have completed our fall workshop series. Our winter schedule will be posted here in January. If you have requests or ideas for workshop topics, please share them with us! Drop by our office or e-mail us at madgichelp@trentu.ca.

Data Management for Researchers: A Step-by-step Guide 

Do you collect and work with research data? Are you trying to make sense of data management requirements for funded research? Bring your questions to this online information session!

We'll discuss new direction in Canadian research data management (RDM) and related impacts to researchers. We’ll also explore tools supported by the library to help you create a data management plan, deposit research data in a trusted repository, establish DOIs for open access or anonymous peer review, and set options for securing and sharing research data. Open to all disciplines; no prior experience is required.

When: TBD - Winter 2025
Where: Online via Zoom
Registration link: Not yet available

Mapping Made Easy: A Beginner's Guide to Data Visualization with ArcGIS Pro 

Kickstart your journey into the world of maps and geospatial data with our beginner-friendly workshop. This interactive session introduces you to ArcGIS Pro, teaching you how to find and use geospatial data, create and customize maps, and effectively symbolize and label data to tell a compelling story. 

When: TBD - Winter 2025
Where: Data Visualization Lab, Bata Library Room 402
Registration link: Not yet available

The Maps, Data & Government Information Centre (MaDGIC) hosts GIS Research Day each year to celebrate Geography Awareness Week which takes place annually during the third week of November.

This event brings together Trent researchers and community partners to share the fascinating ways in which GIS and data are used to conduct interdisciplinary research, inform public policy, and enhance community services.

Video recordings from our 2022 event are posted to Trent University's Library & Archive YouTube channel. 

2025 Esri Canada GIS Scholarship: Apply Now!

Are you interested in GIS and looking to take your skills to the next level? The 2025 Esri Canada GIS Scholarship is your chance!

This award recognizes Trent University's commitment to delivering top-notch, multidisciplinary GIS courses and programs. It's designed to support a dedicated and high-achieving Trent University student in continuing their GIS journey. 

Why apply?
  • Boost your career: Gain recognition and valuable resources to enhance your GIS expertise.
  • Exclusive benefits: Enjoy a range of perks to support your studies and future work experiences.
Scholarship Benefits
  • $1500 one-time payment: Financial support to help you focus on your studies.
  • Three-year ArcGIS license: Access to ArcGIS for Student Use and the ArcGIS Developer Bundle.
  • Esri Press Publications: Digital copies of select books to expand your knowledge.
  • Instructor-led Training: Two courses offered by Esri Canada to sharpen your skills.
  • Conference registration: Complimentary entry to the 2026 GIS in Education and Research Conference.
  • Professional profile: A personal and editable profile in the Esri Canada GIS Scholarship Web Portal.
  • Career opportunities: Eligibility to apply for the Esri Canada Associate GIS Professional Program in your graduation year.
Eligibility
  • Academic excellence: Minimum B+ average in overall GPA.
  • GIS experience: Significant coursework or postgraduate research using Esri technology.
How to apply
  1. Create a poster and report: Showcase your use of Esri technology in a special project, lab work, or research.
  2. Submit your application: Email your poster and report to esrischolarships@trentu.ca by April 1, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

For more details on formatting requirements, visit the Esri Canada GIS Scholarship Web Portal. 

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your GIS skills and career! Apply now and make your mark in the world of GIS.

Questions?

Email us at madgichelp@trentu.ca.

Congratulations to Lyn Brown, our 2024 Esri Canada Scholarship Recipient! 
Read more about Lyn's award-winning research