This session is a brief introduction to mapmaking for historians using geographic information systems (GIS). It will cover the types of things GIS can do, how / where / when it fits into a historical research programme, and practical support offered through the Bodleian. GIS can be used, for example, to produce site distribution maps, visualise geographically referenced data, and perform spatial analysis.

This session is not a hands-on GIS course — it aims to introduce the software at a very basic level and give a sense of its research potential. It will be followed by an opportunity to arrange one-to-one consultations with the instructor (Michael Athanson) tailored to each student’s objectives and timetable.