EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING REPORT

BCV306B

A report submitted to
Department of Civil Engineering of Degree Bachelor of Engineering
Submitted by

Indumathi Shivamallappa

4NI22CV050

Under the guidance of

Dr. Chandan M. C.
Assistant Professor

Department of Civil Engineering

The National Institute of Engineering
(An Autonomous Institute under Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi)

Manandavadi Road, Mysuru – 570 008, Karnataka, INDIA

Mar 2024

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 ABSTRACT
Background:
This report outlines a series of activities aimed at improving proficiency in Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) using QGIS software. These activities encompass tasks such as
data import, digitization, terrain analysis, and map layout creation.

Objective:
The goal of these activities is to provide users with practical experience in various GIS
tasks, equipping them with essential skills for spatial data analysis, visualization, and map
production.

Methods:
Participants will engage with QGIS functionalities, including the installation of plugins like
Quick Map Service. They will learn to import raster, vector, and CSV data, digitize vector
features sourced from toposheets, analyze Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data, and create
map layouts complete with critical map elements.

Results:
Upon completion of these activities, users will develop proficiency in importing diverse
spatial data formats into QGIS, accurately digitizing vector features, conducting terrain
analysis using DEM data, and creating detailed map layouts. The resulting maps will
include necessary elements such as titles, north arrows, scale bars, and coordinates,
enhancing their suitability for analysis and visualization purposes.

Conclusion:
These activities represent an effective approach for users to acquire essential GIS skills,
enabling spatial analysis, visualization, and informed decision-making across various
fields. The practical experience gained will empower users to effectively apply GIS tools
and techniques in their academic pursuits or professional roles.

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 CONTENTS
Details Page No.

Title page
Abstract i
Contents ii

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Introduction of various activities and tasks 1

CHAPTER 2 METHODS AND DATA SOURCES 3

2.1 Activity wise Overview of Methods with data sources....................................................3

CHAPTER 3 RESULTS AND MAPS 4

3.1 Detailed description of the maps 4

CHAPTER 4 LEARNING FROM THE ACTIVITES 4

4.1 Learning 4

CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSION REMARKS 5

5.1 Conclusions 5

REFERENCE 6

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CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction

Geospatial analysis and mapping play a crucial role in comprehending and interpreting
geographical data, essential across disciplines from environmental science to urban
planning. This report documents a series of structured activities aimed at familiarizing
students with various facets of geospatial technology and data management, aiming to
develop their proficiency in data acquisition, processing, and visualization using
advanced tools.

Activity-1 focuses on satellite data acquisition and thematic mapping using software such
as QGIS. Students are tasked with selecting distinct regions across India based on their
University Seat Number (USN), ensuring diversity and avoiding overlap in regional
selection. This activity sharpens skills in spatial data handling while emphasizing the
importance of effective map composition and layout design.

Activity-2 involves retrieving and geo-referencing topographic sheets from the Survey of
India, followed by creating map layouts adhering to cartographic standards. This practical
exercise introduces students to fundamental steps in working with raster data, preparing
them for more detailed analysis and annotation tasks.

Building on geo-referenced topographic sheets from Activity-2, Activity-3 challenges

students to digitize vector data encompassing points, lines, and polygons. By attributing
these features with relevant information like geographic coordinates and descriptive data,
students gain expertise in spatial data modeling and database management.

Activity-4 shifts focus to remote sensing, specifically utilizing Landsat-8 imagery sourced
from platforms such as USGS Earth Explorer or Bhuvan. Students engage in tasks
ranging from image inspection and metadata analysis to employing advanced
classification techniques like supervised classification. Thematic maps created from
classified data demonstrate the application of remote sensing in environmental monitoring
and land use planning.

Finally, Activity-5 encourages creativity as students craft personalized maps using

available data sources. This culminating activity tests individual innovation while
reinforcing skills acquired from preceding tasks, showcasing practical proficiency in
spatial visualization and data interpretation.`

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CHAPTER 2

METHODS AND DATA SOURCES

Activity-1: Satellite Data Acquisition and Mapping

Methods:

1. Data Selection: Students select specific regions in India based on their University
Seat Number (USN) and discuss with fellow students to avoid overlap.
2. Satellite Data Download: Landsat-8, IRS LISS-III or LISS IV, and SRTM DEM
data are downloaded for the chosen regions.
3. Map Creation: Using QGIS software, students create thematic maps:
o For Landsat-8 and IRS LISS data: Overlay region shape files on selected
satellite imagery.
o Map elements include title, north arrow, scale bar, and lat-long extents.
Each map includes student's name and USN in the bottom right corner.

Data Sources:

 Landsat-8 imagery: Accessed from USGS Earth Explorer.

 IRS LISS-III or LISS IV: Data retrieved from relevant sources.
 SRTM DEM: Available from global databases providing elevation data.

Activity-2: Topographic Sheet Acquisition and Geo-referencing

Methods:

1. Topographic Sheet Download: Students download topographic sheets from the

Survey of India website based on their assigned region.
2. Geo-referencing: Using QGIS, students align the downloaded topographic sheets
with real-world coordinates.
3. Map Layout: Create a map layout that includes title, north arrow, scale bar, and
lat-long extents. Each map includes student's name and USN in the bottom right
corner.

Data Sources:

 Survey of India website: Provides free access to topographic maps for various
regions in India.

Activity-3: Digitization and Attribute Data Collection

Methods:

1. Digitization of Vector Data:

o Points: Digitize at least 10 points including hospitals, schools, colleges,
etc.
o Lines: Digitize at least 8 lines such as roads, rivers, and other linear
features.
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 o Polygons: Digitize at least 8 polygons like government buildings, lakes,
etc.
2. Attribute Development: Develop attribute tables for each digitized feature type
(points, lines, polygons) including IDs, names, and calculated measurements
(length for lines, area for polygons).
3. Map Composition: Display digitized features on geo-referenced topographic
sheets with labels for point names, line names, and polygon names. Create map
layouts with standard elements.

Data Sources:

 Geo-referenced topographic sheets from Activity-2.

Activity-4: Landsat-8 Image Analysis and Classification

Methods:

1. Landsat-8 Data Acquisition: Download Landsat-8 imagery from USGS Earth

Explorer or Bhuvan.
2. Image Inspection and Metadata Analysis: Explore image properties and
metadata.
3. Classification: Use QGIS with plugins (like SCP - Semi-Automatic Classification
Plugin) to perform supervised classification (e.g., Maximum Likelihood
Classifier).
4. Map Creation: Generate false color composites (FCC) and classified thematic
maps. Include map elements like title, north arrow, scale bar, and lat-long extents.
Each map includes student's name and USN in the bottom right corner.

Data Sources:

 Landsat-8 imagery: Obtained from USGS Earth Explorer or Bhuvan.

Activity-5: Creative Map Creation

Methods:

1. Map Design: Students create a unique map using any available data sources of
their choice.
2. Creativity Assessment: Maps are evaluated based on originality and creativity in
design and presentation.

Data Sources:

 Any data sources available to students, promoting creativity and exploration in

map design.

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CHAPTER 3

RESULTS AND MAPS

All 5 activities are attached below:

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ACTIVITY-2

1 Write a note on downloading Toposheets from SOI. Include screenshots.

 Visit the SOI Website: Go to the Survey of India website.

https://onlinemaps.surveyofindia.gov.in/FreeMapSpecification.aspx

 Navigate to Toposheet Downloads: Look for a section on the website that offers
topographic maps or toposheets. This is usually found under categories like "Maps" or
"Products."

 Search for Specific Toposheets: Use the search functionality provided on the website.
Enter the name of the region, district, or specific location you need to download
toposheets for.

 Select and Download: Once you've located the desired topographic sheet, click on the
download option. Ensure you select the correct scale and edition as per your project
requirements.

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Chapter 4

LEARNING

Activity-1: Satellite Data Acquisition and Mapping

 Skills Gained: Selecting and downloading satellite data (Landsat-8, IRS LISS),
creating thematic maps in QGIS.
 Focus Areas: Understanding map composition, collaboration for non-overlapping
region selection.

Activity-2: Topographic Sheet Acquisition and Geo-referencing

 Skills Gained: Obtaining Survey of India topographic sheets, geo-referencing

maps in QGIS.
 Key Learning’s: Cartographic standards, practical use of geographic coordinates.

Activity-3: Digitization and Attribute Data Collection

 Skills Gained: Digitizing points, lines, and polygons on geo-referenced maps,

managing attribute data.
 Application: Spatial analysis through length and area calculations, effective map
visualization.

Activity-4: Landsat-8 Image Analysis and Classification

 Skills Gained: Analyzing Landsat-8 imagery, performing supervised classification

(e.g., Maximum Likelihood Classifier).
 Practical Use: Creating false color composites, thematic maps for land cover
analysis.

Activity-5: Creative Map Creation

 Skills Gained: Designing personalized maps using diverse data sources,

showcasing creativity and presentation skills.
 Outcome: Demonstrating individual expression and understanding evaluation
criteria for map effectiveness.

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Chapter 5

CONCLUSIONS
The series of activities detailed here offer a comprehensive introduction to Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) using QGIS software. The Quick Map Service Plug-in
facilitates easy access to base maps from various online sources, significantly enhancing
the visualization of spatial data within QGIS. Importing raster, vector, and CSV data into
QGIS equips users with the ability to integrate diverse spatial datasets, enabling thorough
analysis and visualization. Understanding Coordinate Reference Systems (CRS) is
emphasized through the process of downloading a toposheet and deriving the appropriate
EPSG code for the UTM zone, highlighting its critical role in ensuring accurate spatial
analysis. Digitization exercises teach users to convert vector data from geo-referenced
toposheets into digital formats, fostering the creation of attribute tables essential for
detailed spatial analysis.

Analyzing Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data provides insights into terrain
characteristics such as slope, hill shade, and aspect, crucial for applications ranging from
land management to infrastructure planning. Creating map layouts, complete with
elements like titles, north arrows, and scale bars, enhances users' ability to effectively
communicate spatial information and findings. These activities collectively provide
foundational skills in GIS, empowering users across fields such as environmental science,
urban planning, and natural resource management to conduct robust spatial analysis,
visualization, and informed decision-making. Moreover, the hands-on experience gained
fosters proficiency in utilizing GIS tools and techniques effectively, preparing users for
practical applications in diverse real-world scenarios.

REFERENCE

QGIS basics tutorial: https://youtu.be/z7rqVo0GENk

Map layout tutorial: https://youtu.be/LFJGLaH4Tvg?si=2F51xMTvHshfrZGj
Geo-referencing an image tutorial: https://youtu.be/TFqAT0p6eAc
Digitizing vector features tutorial: https://youtu.be/AtXUn160x0c
Raster data download tutorial: https://youtu.be/VpcNnJaGmvU
Raster data analysis tutorial: https://youtu.be/j22FR9d5H8
Map composition tutorial: https://youtu.be/h99z5NBSXLg
Additionally, the Survey of India website for downloading toposheets can be found at:
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https://onlinemaps.surveyofindia.gov.in/FreeMapSpecification.aspx
These references provide tutorials and guidance for various tasks involved in GIS
activities, helping users to understand and execute each step effectively.