(4) Where Do We Go From Here?

# (4) Where Do We Go From Here? ###### tags: `session-3-chunkified` ## Now What? In this course, we have worked from the ground up introducing what a map and data are and how to critically evaluate and use them in your daily life. This extends to content that you see in the news to when you want to make your own mapping project! Here are some tips we have when planning out your next data project. Ask yourself the following questions to direct your thinking process! 1. **Start with a question** - what question do you hope to answer? What topic are you interested in learning more about? 2. **Identify data** - plan out what spatial and attirbute data you will you need to bring your idea to life, what resources might have the data you are looking for? 3. **Collect Data** - find the data! Go download, collect, or even create the datasets you need for the project. Remember to record where you found the data and keep the context with the data 4. **Map the Data** - create the map using digital software. While we did not cover this in our sessions, there are many great tutorials and resources on how to create maps with free online software. These include ARCGis Online, Carto, and QGIS just to name a few. 5. **Communicate Findings** - take action! Once you have created your map, use it to tell a story. Put together a narrative to share your story and/or findings wiht others. ## In-Class Discussion We'll briefly go around the room and share 1-2 takeaways from the course that you might work into your everyday life. We acknowledge that everyone has different backgrounds and opportunities to apply these ideas. If you already have a project in mind, feel free to share that as well! ## Further Resources We hope you enjoyed the course and seeing data in new, critical ways. If you would like to continue learning about critical cartography, mapping, and data here are some more resources you can explore! * [Leventhal Map Center Tutorials](https://geoservices.leventhalmap.org/cartinal/guides/) - More amazing tutorials compiled by the team at LMEC which cover GIS basics and more. * [Data Feminism](https://datafeminism.io/) - A fascinating read about data and the structures is has been governed and shaped by written by Catherine D'Ignazio and Lauren F. Klein. * [Maptivist Project](https://lmec.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=8f5ef10ad2114bd69c0d6acb973f8741) The Maptivist project strives to combine mapping with activism with a focus on Boston Public Schools.