Locations Mapping

Process

In this week’s lab, I built an interactive map of the campus locations I typically visit. I first created a spreadsheet with each building’s name, latitude and longitude data, address, and other info. I then imported it into ArcGIS Online to place the point features for these buildings. Next, I digitized the building footprints as polygon features to trace their exact positions in my interactive map. Moreover, to improve visibility and convey useful information, I customized the polygon symbology, adjusting fill colors and outlines, and configured labels to display each building’s area so the key locations stand out for viewers.

Reflection

Working on this project showed me that digital mapping is a form of storytelling. It presents spatial information in interactive, engaging ways that go beyond the isolated annotations and static text of paper maps. With pop-ups, labels, and flexible layer controls, information can be organized in multiple layers, making it easier to explore and more directly connected to the places being described. Therefore, I believe digital mapping has great potential in digital humanities. When encountering texts that explore how geography shapes human activity, an interactive map clarifies those relationships. Readers can navigate space, toggle layers, and reveal details as needed. In particular, I think ArcGIS works well for this task. Its pop-ups, labels, and flexible symbology let creators embed sources and context directly on the map. The result is a richer, more exploratory way to understand how environments influence human life.