GIS Lab – Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries – Vanderbilt University
Location Description
The GIS Lab is part of the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries System at Vanderbilt University. The mission of the GIS Lab is to provide comprehensive Geographic Information Systems (GIS) resources that foster exploration, enable geospatial data literacy and communication, while promoting collaboration in interdisciplinary research and problem-solving. We offer support for education and training, research, community engagement and outreach, as well as geospatial data management and access.
Practicum Work Mode
Flexible / Hybrid
Semesters or Time Period Available
Ongoing, not limited to a specific semester
Location
1210 21st Ave. S.
Nashville, TN 37203
https://www.library.vanderbilt.edu/gis-lab
Contact
Alyssa Sklar
Librarian for Geospatial Systems and Data
alyssa.sklar@vanderbilt.edu
615-343-6704
Student Tasks
This practicum is ideal for students interested in geospatial librarianship, digital scholarship, and/or research support within an academic library setting. The student will contribute to one or more active projects supported by the GIS Lab, with the opportunity to tailor their experience based on individual interests and professional goals. Potential tasks may include:
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● Supporting the design and analysis of assessment tools for GIS Lab events and workshops, including surveys and feedback collection.
● Participating in an environmental scan to map out GIS-related services, projects, tools, and expertise across the University.
● Helping to develop or improve online tutorials and documentation for GIS tools, workflows, LibGuides, and geospatial data literacy.
Projects can be adapted to match student interest in instructional design, research support, geospatial technology services, and/or outreach and engagement.
Type of Mentoring Provided to the Student
The student will receive regular mentorship from the Geospatial Librarian with check-ins occurring weekly or biweekly depending on project timelines and student availability. As well as the opportunity to engage with the extended Research Engagement & Digital Lab teams at Vanderbilt. Mentoring will focus on professional development, skill-building in GIS and navigating academic and research library settings.
Student Interaction With Others at the Location
The student will have the opportunity to collaborate with a range of library and campus partners. This may include collaborating with subject librarians and faculty or staff engaged in geospatial research. Participation in team meetings, lab events, and relevant campus programming will be encouraged to provide a broader context of the role of GIS in academic research and community engagement.