Introduction to Spatial Data analysis and GIS Workflows in R (IRGI01)
Learn spatial data analysis and GIS workflows in R. Practical online training in sf, terra, mapping, and spatial data processing.
Duration: 2 Days, 3 hours per day
Next Date: November 17 - 18, 2026
Format: Live Online Format
UK (GMT) local time - All sessions will be recorded and made available to ensure accessibility for attendees across different time zones.
£250Registration Fee
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- Overview
- Instructors
- Schedule
Course Description
This two half-day course on spatial data analysis and GIS workflows in R provides a comprehensive introduction to using R as a GIS tool for spatial data analysis, focusing on importing, managing, processing, and visualizing spatial data. Participants will acquire essential skills to conduct sophisticated spatial analyses and produce complex maps, significantly enhancing their research projects. No previous experience of coding is required, although participants would benefit from some experience of using spatial data (e.g. Google Maps).
If you already have basic GIS knowledge, you might be interested in Advanced Spatial Data Analysis and GIS workflows in R (IRGI01)
Other relevant and useful FREE courses can be found HERE
What You’ll Learn
- Importing Spatial Data: Handling spatial data including shapefiles and geopackages.
- Managing Spatial Data: Using spatial library `sf` to manage spatial data objects.
- Choropleth Maps: Creating choropleth maps to show data on a map.
- Visualizations: Enhancing map presentation with custom colour scales, legends, and thematic elements.
- Looping for Automation: Using loops in R to automate repetitive tasks and generate multiple maps efficiently.
- Real-world Examples: Applying learned techniques to real-world datasets.
- Interactive Maps: Introduction to creating interactive web maps using R.
- Using your own data: A chance to speak with Nick about finding and working with your own data.
Course Format
Interactive Learning Format
Each day features a well-balanced combination of lectures and hands-on practical exercises, with dedicated time for discussing participants’ own data, time permitting.
Global Accessibility
All live sessions are recorded and made available on the same day, ensuring accessibility for participants across different time zones.
Collaborative Discussions
Open discussion sessions provide an opportunity for participants to explore specific research questions and engage with instructors and peers.
Comprehensive Course Materials
All code, datasets, and presentation slides used during the course will be shared with participants by the instructor.
Personalized Data Engagement
Participants are encouraged to bring their own data for discussion and practical application during the course.
Post-Course Support
Participants will receive continued support via email for 30 days following the course, along with on-demand access to session recordings for the same period.
Who Should Attend / Intended Audiences
This course is ideal for anyone who wishes to use spatial data in their role, including researchers, students and anyone who has data with some spatial information (e.g. address, postcode, etc.) which they wish to show on a map. It is also suitable for those who wish to have an overview of what GIS and spatial data can be used for. The course covers some key theoretical concepts, with the bulk of the time spent on practical applications. All mapping and analysis will be performed using R, the free software environment for statistical computing and graphics (http://www.r-project.org/). Participants will learn to work with R packages sf and tmap. Instructors will provide datasets for the practical sessions, although participants are encouraged to bring their own data. This course requires no prior knowledge of GIS or coding. A level of basic computer experience is required.
Equipment and Software requirements
A laptop or desktop computer with a functioning installation of R and RStudio is required. Both R and RStudio are free, open-source programs compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
A working webcam is recommended to support interactive elements of the course. We encourage participants to keep their cameras on during live Zoom sessions to foster a more engaging and collaborative environment.
While not essential, using a large monitor—or ideally a dual-monitor setup—can significantly enhance your learning experience by allowing you to view course materials and work in R simultaneously.
All necessary R packages will be introduced and installed during the workshop. A comprehensive list of required packages will also be shared with participants ahead of the course to allow for optional pre-installation.
Dr. Nick Bearman
Nick Bearman is a geospatial data scientist and GIS specialist with extensive experience in spatial analysis, data visualisation, and applied geospatial training. His work focuses on helping organisations and researchers make better decisions through the effective use of spatial data, combining technical expertise with a strong emphasis on communication and usability.
His core expertise includes Geographical Information Systems (GIS), spatial data visualisation, accessibility modelling, and the development of interactive mapping solutions. Nick has worked across a wide range of sectors, including public health, transport, retail, and environmental management, applying spatial analysis to real-world challenges.
Nick is the Director of Geospatial Training Solutions, where he delivers professional training in GIS, QGIS, and spatial data analysis. He is also actively involved in the wider geospatial community, contributing to training standards and supporting capacity building in open-source GIS.
Education & Career
- Director, Geospatial Training Solutions
· Certified QGIS Trainer (QGIS Certification Programme)
· Extensive experience delivering GIS and spatial data training internationally
· Background in geography and spatial data science
Research & Professional Focus
Nick’s work centres on applied spatial analysis and improving how organisations use geographic data. He specialises in translating complex spatial workflows into accessible, practical tools for decision-making, with particular strengths in accessibility modelling and geospatial visualisation.
Current Work
- Delivery of GIS and QGIS training courses for professional and academic audiences
· Development of spatial data workflows and mapping solutions
· Consultancy in accessibility analysis and geospatial decision support
Professional Consultancy
Nick works with public and private sector organisations to develop spatial data strategies, build analytical capacity, and implement GIS solutions. His consultancy spans transport planning, health accessibility, and location-based analysis.
Teaching & Skills
- Specialist in GIS, QGIS, and spatial data analysis
· Experienced trainer in applied geospatial workflows and visualisation
· Strong focus on reproducible analysis and effective communication of spatial data
· Advocate for open-source geospatial tools and best practices
Links
Session 1 – 01:30:00 – Introduction to R and Spatial Data Basics
- Setting up R and RStudio
- Working with spatial data formats
- Basic spatial data handling
- Introduction to ‘sf’ library
- Importing shapefiles
Session 2 – 01:30:00 – Classification and Creating a Choropleth Map
- Creating choropleth maps
- Classifying spatial data
- Different classification methods
Session 3 – 01:30:00 – Map Customisation and Automation in R
- Customizing map visuals
- Automating with loops
- Generating multiple maps efficiently
- Adding legends and thematic elements
Session 4 – 01:30:00 – Clustering of Crime Points and Working with your Own Data
- Working with point data
- Reprojecting data to different CRS
- Exporting data to shapefiles
- Interactive web maps with R
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PhD Assistant Professor, Florida International University
Courses attended
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Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about the product and billing.
When will I receive instructions on how to join?
You’ll receive an email on the Friday before the course begins, with full instructions on how to join via Zoom. Please ensure you have Zoom installed in advance.
Do I need administrator rights on my computer?
I’m attending the course live — will I also get access to the session recordings?
I can’t attend every live session — can I join some sessions live and catch up on others later?
I’m in a different time zone and plan to follow the course via recordings. When will these be available?
I can’t attend live — how can I ask questions?
Will I receive a certificate?
When will I receive instructions on how to join?
You’ll receive an email on the Friday before the course begins, with full instructions on how to join via Zoom. Please ensure you have Zoom installed in advance.
Do I need administrator rights on my computer?
I’m attending the course live — will I also get access to the session recordings?
I can’t attend every live session — can I join some sessions live and catch up on others later?
I’m in a different time zone and plan to follow the course via recordings. When will these be available?
I can’t attend live — how can I ask questions?
Will I receive a certificate?
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