El método MercatorGis. Un primer acercamiento

The digital competence related to the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) is usually seen as very complex, difficult and is an issue that is not taken into account although it is very important in the representation and understanding of phenomena, not only geographic ones: the The very term Geographic Information System encompasses the integration of very diverse areas. The theme fits perfectly with the objectives of this symposium since, according to the definition drawn up by the National Center of Geographic Information and Analysis, GIS serves "to solve complex planning and management problems". In fact, the GIS is today one of the most modern and effective tools in the tourism, environmental, archaeological, urban planning and general resource management and administration sectors. Therefore, it is a field of interest reserved not only for geographers, but also for economists, urban planners, historians and other scholars: a growing number of disciplines are using GIS tools. Despite these potential benefits, it is generally believed that knowing how to use GIS software is reserved for specialized operators only, and therefore university students are unlikely to be convinced to attend a GIS course. On the other hand, the materials available on the web are often confusing and inadequate. This paper proposes a simple method of approach to GIS that allows all students to continue learning independently. The method, called MercatorGis, is the result of some workshops carried out during the lessons of Geography of Cultural Heritage and Doctorate in Cultural Sciences (University of Palermo).