Poster
SimplyMap: Introducing a New Mapping Tool & Data Source at Drexel Libraries
Drexel University. Drexel Research Day
Drexel Research Day (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 24 Apr 2008 - 24 Apr 2008)
24 Apr 2008
Abstract
As university libraries move from hosting print collections toward more electronic content, they have also begun to offer a range of data and analysis tools. This responds to increased demands from faculty that students substantiate their research with original analysis of data, instead of just citing the work of other authors. In 2007 Drexel University Libraries began offering the "SimplyMap" web-based mapping application to meet this need. Using a simplified interface it affords similar features to sophisticated geographic information systems (GIS). SimplyMap comes bundled with a number of datasets: the 2000 U.S. Census with 2006 & 2007 estimates and 2011 projection;, Consumer Expenditures and Quality of Life data (such as weather and crime). The maps – as well as the underlying data – can be exported for use in Word, PowerPoint or Excel. In reality it is two tools in one: an application for visualizing data as maps and, a map-interface for retrieving datasets. Empowered with both the tools and data to rapidly test hypotheses and interpret results visually, students have the opportunity to participate more deeply in the research process and experience a more active and engaged form of learning. Drexel librarians have developed a number of examples to show how maps and datasets from SimplyMap might be used effectively to support typical student research assignments.
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Details
- Title
- SimplyMap: Introducing a New Mapping Tool & Data Source at Drexel Libraries
- Creators
- Jay Bhatt (Author) - Drexel UniversityTara Martin (Author) - Drexel UniversityLarry Milliken (Author) - Drexel UniversityJoshua C. Roberts (Author) - Drexel UniversityTim Siftar (Author) - Drexel UniversityBeth Ten-Have (Author) - Drexel University
- Publication Details
- Drexel University. Drexel Research Day
- Event
- Drexel Research Day (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, 24 Apr 2008 - 24 Apr 2008)
- Resource Type
- Poster
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Drexel University Libraries
- Identifiers
- 991014632265204721