This workshop will introduce the use of Free and Open Source (FOSS) GIS software for archaeological applications. Both Quantum GIS (QGIS) and the Geographical Resources Analysis Support System (GRASS) will be used. There are no prerequisites, and no previous GIS experience is required. The workshop will present an overview of some applications of GIS for archaeologists, and will provide a basic introduction to QGIS and its GRASS plug-in.
Participants will learn how to download the software (Windows, Mac or Linux), where to find help and various online resources for archaeology GIS, and will be provided with specific examples of the use of these for archaeology. The hands-on activities will center on learning the basic use and capabilities of QGIS for the display and analysis of spatial data. The GRASS plug-in will be used to conduct more comprehensive vector, raster, and voxel data display and analysis.
A brief introduction to how these tools fit into the ‘open source stack’ together with other capabilities including python, WGS, R, and Postgis will also be presented. The goal is to have each participant capable of downloading the current version of the code and mastering the basics of using QGIS and GRASS for their own archaeological work.
