The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Libraries GIS Day Map Competition aims to foster a deeper appreciation for GIS, encourage spatial thinking, and showcase the power of maps in understanding our complex world. Participants will showcase their creativity and analytical skills by creating innovative and informative maps that highlight various aspects of our world or even fictional realms.
For information about previous GIS Day events, please check this link:
We are thrilled to announce the winners of this year's GIS Day Map Competition, where talented individuals showcased their skills in mapping.
1st Place Winners:
Landyn Bish and Alexi Caines, Architecture (Teamwork). Map Title: Lincoln NEBRASKA HEALTHCARE SYSTEM and Expansion
2nd Place Winner:
Erik Schulz, School of Global Integrative Studies. Map Title: Nebraska’s Missing U.S. Soldiers from the Vietnam War.
People's Choice Winner:
Nutaila Yaqoob Ayoub Al Hadidi, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. Map Title: Exploring Earthquake Magnitudes and Fault Zones in China
Winners and the panel of judges:
Photo were taken by Joan Barnes
Date and Duration:
The competition will take place during the week of GIS Day (from November 13th to November 17th).
Competition Guidelines:
The GIS Day Map Competition is designed to be accessible and inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels, including those with no prior GIS experience. We want to emphasize that no specialized GIS skills or GIS software are required to take part in the competition. This competition is an opportunity for students from any background to engage with data and map-making.
Submission:
Participants must submit their digital maps by October 25, 2023, using the following form: https://unlcorexmuw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6hxJYSkvclzq9N4.
Maps should be accompanied by a brief description (max. 400 words) explaining the map's purpose, data sources, and key insights.
Exhibition
All the digital maps will be showcased on our map gallery webpage, and selected maps will be printed and displayed in the Love Library from November 13th to November 17th.
Prizes:
We have awards for 1st place, 2nd place, and a People's Choice winner. The 1st place winner will receive a $50 gift card, the 2nd place winner will receive a $25 gift card, and the People's Choice winner will be awarded a $25 gift card. We'll also be hosting a reception for the winners to collect their certificates at the Love Library.
Judging Criteria:
Maps will be evaluated by a panel of faculty and staff members according to the following criteria:
Exploring Map Ideas: Real-World and Fictional Inspirations
If you're unsure about the type of map to create, here are some examples to inspire you: consider mapping real-world phenomena like climate change trends, population migrations, urban development, or delve into the realms of fantasy by crafting maps for fictional worlds like those found in epic fantasy novels, video games, or even your own imaginative creations. Below are two map examples:
Nebraska Map Federal Lands. From: GISGeography (https://gisgeography.com/nebraska-state-map/)
"Progress Of The Roman Empire, Illustrated By The Course of the River Amazon" (1824) by Emma Willard. From Emma Willard’s Maps of Time By Susan Schulten (https://publicdomainreview.org/essay/emma-willard-maps-of-time/)