QGIS: An Introductory Tour (in-person) In-Person
Are you ready to dive into the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)? Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed specifically for new learners. This free session from UofT's Map and Data Library will guide you through the basic essentials using free and open source software.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Installation and Setup: We’ll start with an introduction to open source GIS solutions and QGIS 3, a popular and powerful cross-platform desktop application, specifically.
- Navigating the Interface: Get familiar with the different parts of the QGIS interface, making it easier to find the tools and features you need.
- Exploring Datasets: Learn how to import and explore datasets, unlocking the potential of spatially enabled data.
- Symbology: Discover how to turn data into cartographic visualizations.
- Exporting Maps: Export your maps to PDF, allowing you to share your work and incorporate it into reports, posters, and other print and digital products.
- Resources: Learn about ongoing support that the Map and Data Library can provide: assistance finding data, one-on-one consults with subject matter experts, and access to specialized software.
In addition to these practical skills, the session will include a discussion of GIS fundamentals, so you'll gain familiarity with common file formats and workflows. There will be time for Q&A; participants are encouraged to bring any questions they may have. If you'd like to learn how you might use spatial analysis in your studies and research, this workshop is a perfect starting point.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your technical skills and take your first steps with QGIS. We look forward to seeing you there!
- Prerequisites:
- There are no prerequisites or prior knowledge required for this workshop.
- Audience:
- This workshop is designed for U of T students and researchers.
- Instructor:
- Cole White, GIS Analyst
This event will be held in the Robarts Library, room 4033 on the 4th floor. For directions, please visit: https://onesearch.library.utoronto.ca/robarts-library-electronic-classroom
This is the first workshop in the Map and Data Library's QGIS series. Register for our other upcoming QGIS workshops here:
- QGIS: Loading and Manipulating Data 11:00am, Wednesday, November 19 (in-person).
- QGIS: Spatial Analysis 11:00am, Wednesday, December 3 (in-person).
- Geospatial Python Programming with QGIS: 1pm, Wednesday, December 10 (in-person).
MDL is committed to making our workshops accessible to everyone. If you'd like to discuss how we can best meet any accessibility needs you may have and help you get the most out of this workshop, please contact Cole White (cole.white@utoronto.ca).
- Date:
- Wednesday, November 5, 2025
- Time:
- 11:00am - 1:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Robarts Library, Electronic Classroom (Map )
- Campus:
- St. George (Downtown) Campus
- Audience:
- Alumni Community External Researchers Faculty Graduate Students Staff Undergraduate Students
- Categories:
- Digital Tools Maps & GIS Workshop
Cole is the GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Analyst at U of T's Map and Data Library, and a graduate of the Centre of Geographic Sciences in Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia. They offer expertise in advanced spatial analysis, Esri and open-source software, coding, cartographic design, and web mapping.
A few interesting projects Cole has worked on include:
• Performing spatial analysis to support sustainable economic empowerment for global communities
• Developing interactive, educational web maps to promote ecologically sound home gardening practices
• Designing creative, experimental map graphics to be used in collaborative published art projects
• Using deep learning to analyze historical maps
At U of T, Cole facilitates workshops, develops instructional materials, and provides technical consultations for anyone interested in GIS. Cole loves helping others learn and is dedicated to connecting learners of all varieties with skills and resources to make the best use of geospatial technology in their work. Feel free to get in contact at cole.white@utoronto.ca