National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis

Many colleges and universities around the world have begun to offer courses in GIS (geographic information systems), but many do not have access to adequate facilities for laboratory sections of these courses. The purpose of this NCGIA technical report is to provide examples of the successful establishment of computer labs for GIS instruction. Since every situation is unique, we have identified six colleges and universities with GIS teaching laboratories which together represent a broad spectrum of experience. One person at each site was asked to write a report detailing the process they went through when attempting to set up their lab, the present configuration and operating concerns presented by their labs, and the manner in which the lab is used for GIS teaching. Each individual received a list of topics as a guide to writing, but for the most part the reports reflect personal style and the major concerns presented by each situation.