From Confusion to Competence: 10 Reasons Why People Struggle to Learn GIS.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become an essential tool in various fields, including urban planning, environmental management, and emergency response. However, many individuals struggle to learn GIS, despite its growing importance. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why people find it challenging to learn GIS and provide insights into how to overcome these difficulties.

1. No Laid-Out Curriculum to Follow

One of the primary reasons people find it hard to learn GIS is the lack of a structured curriculum. With numerous online resources available from different sources, it can be overwhelming to determine where to start. The abundance of information can lead to confusion, and learners may struggle to identify the most relevant and accurate resources. Without a clear learning path, individuals may feel lost and unsure about how to progress in their GIS education. Before you start your journey, it is imperative to consult renowned organisations or professionals who are applying the technology in your sphere of interest.

2. Expensive In-Person Trainings

While online resources are plentiful, some people learn better and faster in a traditional classroom setting. In-person trainings provide an opportunity to ask questions, receive immediate feedback, and interact with instructors and peers. However, these trainings can be expensive, making it difficult for individuals to access them. The cost of in-person trainings can be a significant barrier, especially for those who are self-funding their education or working with limited budgets.

3. Lack of Guidance

GIS is a broad and complex field, encompassing various disciplines, including geography, computer science, and statistics. Without proper guidance, learners can easily become overwhelmed and struggle to focus on the most relevant topics. Moreover, without direction, individuals may start learning GIS in areas that are too advanced or not suited to their specific use cases. This can lead to frustration and disappointment, causing learners to abandon their GIS education altogether.

4. Multiple Levels of GIS Proficiency

GIS has different levels of proficiency, including basic, intermediate, and advanced. Each level requires a distinct set of skills and knowledge, and learners must progress through these levels in a logical and structured manner. However, without clear guidance, individuals may struggle to determine which level they should be focusing on, leading to confusion and a lack of progress.

5. Steep Learning Curve

GIS requires a strong foundation in spatial analysis, data management, and visualization. The learning curve for GIS can be steep, especially for those without prior experience in these areas. The complexity of GIS software, such as ArcGIS or QGIS, can also be intimidating, with numerous tools and functions to master. This can be overwhelming for learners, causing them to feel frustrated and demotivated.

6. Limited Access to Software and Data

To learn GIS effectively, individuals need access to GIS software and relevant data. However, many GIS software packages are expensive, and data can be difficult to obtain, especially for those without connections to organizations or institutions that provide access to these resources. This limited access can hinder the learning process, making it challenging for individuals to practice and apply their GIS skills.

To help with this, Esri has introduced the Africa Geoportal, a free platform for students to apply their GIS skills. In addition, Esri MOOC comes with access to the software for a limited time.

7. Insufficient Feedback and Support

Learning GIS can be a solitary experience, especially for those who are self-studying. Without regular feedback and support, learners may struggle to identify areas where they need improvement and may not receive the guidance they need to overcome challenges. This lack of support can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration, causing individuals to abandon their GIS education.

8. Rapidly Evolving Technology

The GIS field is constantly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. This rapid pace of change can make it difficult for learners to keep up with the latest developments and best practices. Moreover, the constant evolution of GIS software and tools can render existing knowledge and skills obsolete, requiring learners to continually update their skills and knowledge.

9. Limited Exposure to Real-World Applications

For some learners, the theoretical aspects of GIS may not be enough to maintain their interest. Without exposure to real-world applications and case studies, individuals may struggle to see the relevance and importance of GIS in their daily lives or professional pursuits. This limited exposure to practical applications can make it challenging for learners to stay motivated and engaged in the learning process.

10. Prior Knowledge and Experience

Finally, prior knowledge and experience can play a significant role in an individual’s ability to learn GIS. Those with a strong foundation in geography, computer science, or related fields may find it easier to learn GIS, while those without this background may struggle to understand key concepts and principles. Additionally, learners with prior experience in data analysis, programming, or spatial reasoning may be better equipped to learn GIS and apply its principles in practical contexts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning GIS can be a challenging and complex process, with numerous obstacles and barriers to overcome. By understanding these challenges, individuals can better prepare themselves for the learning process and seek out resources and support to help them succeed. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced GIS professional, recognizing the difficulties associated with learning GIS can help you develop a more effective learning strategy and achieve your goals in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.

Next Steps

Irrespective of this, GIS is an invaluable skill in our world today and we need more people solving real-world challenges. Hence, we would love to help you not fall into these set-ups. For free consultations for businesses and organisations on starting your GIS journey or upskilling, take advantage of free one – one sessions with our team. Take 1 minute to fill this form.

Best of luck in your GIS journey.