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.

Workshops and Events

Whose Data is it, Anyway?

Format: Online
When: Monday February 10, 12:00-12:50 p.m.

Who owns the data you're using to conduct your research? Where and when can you publish your data? Can you make it discoverable? With whom can it be shared? Join us as we reflect on these important questions and discuss how to maximize the impact of your research by ensuring that data is as open as possible and as restricted as necessary.

Register for Whose Data is it, Anyway?

Making a Map in ArcGIS Online

Format: In person
Where: Bata Library room 402
When: Monday February 10, 1:00-1:50 p.m.

Join us for this 50-minute in-person workshop where you will create an interactive map using ArcGIS Online. You will learn how to convert a spreadsheet into spatial data, create pop-ups with images and links, symbolize data, and share your map. 

This workshop is ideal for beginners who are new to mapping and GIS software. ArcGIS Online is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.

Register for Making a Map in ArcGIS Online

Map anytime, anywhere, online with Google Earth Engine

Format: Online
When: Tuesday February 11, 11:00-11:55 a.m.

Google Earth Engine is a cloud-based software that hosts free satellite imagery layers which you can use for mapping the world over decades. In this session, we will use the platform's JavaScript coding environment to add and manipulate imagery of Peterborough, and create map images and videos spanning back more than 40 years. After that, easily transfer your workflow to another location anywhere on Earth. 

No prior experience is required; a basic knowledge of coding or satellite imagery will be an asset.

Register for Map anytime, anywhere online with Google Earth Engine

R Figures

Format: In person
Location: Bata Library room 402
When: Wednesday February 12, 1:00-1:50 p.m.

Let's show off your hard work this year by making great graphs, plots, and figures in R. In this workshop we will focus on data visualization using common R packages like ggplot2. Using an example dataset, we will create basic publication-quality figures that could be included in a final project or thesis. Afterwards, you can transfer the workshop code and use what you've learned to generate figures on your own. 

Prior experience in R is required for this workshop. While we will cover some basics, it is expected that participants know how to install and load packages, define variables, and create and run functions in RStudio. Ideal for those who have already conducted analyses and are looking to create a final output for their article or paper.

Register for R Figures

Open-source mapping with QGIS

Format: Hybrid
Location for in-person registrants: Bata Library room 402
When: Thursday February 13, 1:00-1:50 p.m.

Learn to create maps in the open-source program QGIS. If you have thought about using ArcGIS but don't have a Windows PC, then you're in luck! QGIS is an open-source program that is available on Windows, MacOS and Linux. In this short workshop, we will cover the basics of mapmaking from importing spatial data to creating a final map output. Our goal is to enable you to map spatial data and produce professional, publication-quality maps for your own research and course work. 

No prior experience is required.

Register for Open-source mapping with QGIS

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 is posted below. 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 directions 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 use geospatial data, create and customize maps, and effectively symbolize and label data to tell a compelling story. 

Beginners are welcome- no experience is required!

When: Thursday, March 13th @ 10-11:50 am.
Where: Data Visualization Lab, Bata Library Room 402
Registration link: https://trentu.libcal.com/event/3884336

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