Objective:
R is a language and environment for statistical computing and
graphics. In recent years, developers have significantly expanded the
capacity of R to process, analyse and display spatial data. Many tasks that
previously required a Geographic Information System (GIS) today can be done
within R, with the added advantage that they can be fully integrated within
other steps of the analysis. In addition, when using R scripts for spatial
analysis and the production of maps (as opposite to using software with graphical
user interfaces) they become fully documented and reproducible.
Very recent
developments include the "sf" package, with provides support for
simple features in R and allow for a smooth interaction with packages of the
"tidyverse", and a series of new mapping packages that allow for the
creation of thematic maps and interactive maps.
It is likely that even R users
with some experience have not been exposed to the new tools available in R for
the process, analysis and display of spatial data. This course is intended to
provide this exposure.
By the end of the course participants will be able to:
- Read vector and raster data in a variety of formats
- Create spatial objects from scratch
- Perform spatial operations in vector and raster data
- Query and summarise spatial data
- Prepare static maps using base and ggplot graphics
- Create interactive maps for an array of data types
Level:
The course assumes that participants have a basic exposure to R, but
assumes no background in the manipulation and visualisation of spatial data.
