Free ArcGIS Training Online from Esri
There are currently 26 free “Web Courses” available from Esri. I am a huge fan of these courses, they are well organized, provide a certificate of completion, and actually teach you usable things. Web Courses utilize informational videos, reading material, interactive videos, and quizzes to teach an reenforce concepts and skills. These free classes on ArcMap and other Esri technologies are a great way to get introduced to the software, prepare for an exam, and/or “refresh” yourself and get certificates on things you’ve learned before.
Here are the 26 courses in my personally preferred order:
Getting Started with GIS (for ArcGIS 9.2-9.3)
Format: Web Course
Duration: 3 modules (9 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 9.2, 9.3
Authored by Esri
Geographic information systems (GIS) have changed the way many governments and organizations conduct business, solve problems, and plan for the future. This course provides a foundation for understanding what a geographic information system is and the possibilities it offers for discovering patterns, relationships, and trends. You learn how GIS maps are different from other types of paper and digital maps, what makes the data used in a GIS unique, and how to use GIS software to obtain information and create meaningful maps. In interactive exercises and activities throughout the course, you work with ArcGIS software and see how a GIS supports problem solving in many different contexts.
Getting Started with GIS (for ArcGIS 10.0)
Format: Web Course
Duration: 3 modules (9 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
This course will help you understand what a geographic information system is and why organizations around the world rely on GIS technology. You will learn how GIS maps are different from other types of paper and digital maps, what makes the data used in a GIS unique, and how to use GIS software to obtain information and create meaningful maps. In course exercises and activities, you will work with ArcGIS software and see how a GIS supports problem solving in many different contexts.
Getting Started with GIS
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (4 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1, 10.2
Authored by Esri
If you are curious about what the acronym “GIS” stands for and what a GIS actually is, this course provides the answers. You will be introduced to the basic components of a GIS and some fundamental concepts that underlie the use of a GIS. As you practice working with GIS maps and geographic data, you will learn how a GIS helps people visualize and create information that can be used to make decisions and solve problems.
Basics of Geographic Coordinate Systems (for ArcGIS 10)
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
How do you accurately represent the location of features found on the earth’s three-dimensional surface on a two-dimensional piece of paper or computer screen? In a GIS, the answer starts with a geographic coordinate system. In this course, you will learn the fundamental concepts of geographic coordinate systems and some of the history behind their development. You will also see how improvements in technology have affected the accuracy of GIS maps and measurements made from them.
Using ArcMap in ArcGIS Desktop 10
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
ArcGIS 10 brings many enhancements to ArcMap that help you produce and share better maps faster. In this course, you will learn about key new features that are designed to reduce the time spent on common mapping tasks and improve the quality of your map products. In the presentation you learn how you can take advantage of these new features to enhance your day-to-day workflows. In the hands-on exercise, you get practice using the new features.
Editing in ArcGIS Desktop
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
The improved editing environment in ArcGIS Desktop 10 features a reorganized editing interface that offers easier access to tools. This course introduces new streamlined editing workflows, which provide a more intuitive experience and allow for quicker completion of data editing tasks.
Turning Data into Information Using ArcGIS 10
Format: Web Course
Duration: 6 modules (18 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri, Paul A. Longley, Ph.D., Michael F. Goodchild, Ph.D., David J. Maguire, Ph.D. andDavid W. Rhind, Ph.D.
This course examines the scientific methods used to derive useful information from spatial data. A companion to the book Geographic Information Systems and Science, Third Edition published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd, the course is designed to complement this book and reinforce its concepts through exercises and examples. You will explore GIS theory related to the visualization, measurement, transformation, and optimization of spatial data. An underlying theme that uncertainty is an inherent characteristic of spatial data is thoroughly examined and you will learn how to identify it, measure it, and live with it.
Python for Everyone
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1, 10.2
Authored by Esri
Python is the scripting language of choice for the ArcGIS platform. This course introduces fundamental Python concepts and the Python scripting environment in ArcGIS. Tips and techniques to help you master proper Python syntax, script flow, and error handling are presented.
Using Python in ArcGIS Desktop 10
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
At ArcGIS Desktop 10, Python scripting is tightly integrated into ArcMap and ArcCatalog, allowing you to create and automate GIS workflows quickly and easily. This course introduces Python scripting in ArcGIS Desktop and shows how you can use scripts to increase productivity and the quality of your maps and data. The presentation covers how to use the new ArcPy mapping module to manipulate map documents and layers.
ArcGIS Data Interoperability Basics
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 9.3.1
Authored by Esri and Safe Software
The ArcGIS Data Interoperability extension helps GIS professionals quickly convert spatial data to the precise format and data model needed for the task at hand. This course, the first in a series of six, introduces the concepts and terminology of interoperability. You will learn how to read, import, and export spatial datasets quickly and easily, regardless of data format.
Preparing to Implement ArcGIS Online
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1, 10.2
Authored by Esri
An ArcGIS Online organizational site facilitates collaboration and easy access to GIS data, maps, and apps across your organization and beyond. This course presents a three-step planning process to align your ArcGIS Online organizational site with your business needs and key workflows.
Creating and Sharing Locator Packages (for ArcGIS 10.1)
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (30 minutes)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
Geocoding feature or event locations is the first step to visualizing and analyzing tabular data on a GIS map. This course demonstrates how to create locator packages to efficiently share GIS resources used to geocode tabular data, then make the packages available to colleagues or users of custom desktop and mobile applications.
Teaching with GIS: Introduction to Using GIS in the Classroom
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1, 10.2
Authored by Esri
Today’s students embrace technology outside the classroom, and, when used effectively, technology is an excellent tool to engage students inside the classroom as well. This course presents strategies for integrating GIS to support instruction, discussion, and extended learning on any topic. You will learn how to create and use GIS maps as a framework for understanding the geographic context of current and historical events and phenomena and exploring issues of interest to your local community. Many practical ideas for GIS activities that enhance student learning and critical thinking skills are shared.
Migrating to the ArcGIS for Local Government Information Model
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.2
Authored by Esri
The ArcGIS for Local Government Information Model (LGIM) brings consistency to GIS data management and information products, and directly supports government initiatives to be more efficient and increase citizen engagement. This course teaches how to identify ArcGIS for Local Government maps and apps that meet your organization’s business needs and migrate your existing data to the LGIM so that you can take advantage of those resources.
GIS for Humanitarian Mine Action
Format: Web Course
Duration: 8 modules (24 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 9.3
Authored by Esri and GICHD
Land mines, cluster munitions, and explosive remnants of war (ERW) impact civilians in more than 80 countries around the world. GIS maps are a critical tool used to disseminate information and implement and manage mine action operations in the field. This course teaches the fundamental concepts you need to know in order to create GIS maps that support land-release efforts. You will learn techniques to ensure your maps are accurate, reliable, and easy to understand by their intended users.
Mobile GIS: Using the ArcGIS for iOS Application
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
This course teaches how to access and work with web maps shared using the free ArcGIS for iOS application. Providing access to GIS-enabled web maps allows iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users to explore data hosted on your server or on ArcGIS Online; discover information in interactive, visually rich maps; and collect and update GIS data in the field—which in turn can streamline your data collection workflows, promote citizen engagement, and help increase the currency of your GIS database.
Note: Course exercises require an iOS device.
Field GIS: Collecting and Editing Data Using ArcPad 10
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (3 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0
Authored by Esri
This course teaches how to improve GIS data accuracy and field workforce productivity using ArcPad, the field mapping and data collection software designed for GIS professionals. You will learn a workflow for map-driven field data collection—preparing data and maps for use in the field, editing data to reflect real-world conditions, and getting updated data back into your GIS database when field work is completed.
Esri CityEngine Essentials 1: Getting Started
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (60 minutes)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.2
Authored by Esri
This course introduces you to the world of procedural modeling using Esri CityEngine. Three video tutorials guide you through the steps to successfully install CityEngine and prepare for your first project. You will explore key interface elements and navigation tools used to visualize, design, and modify 3D models. Best practices to organize files, folders, and assets are covered.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for ArcGIS Desktop Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0, 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the ArcGIS Desktop Associate certification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills using ArcGIS software to:
Visualize data in maps, tables, and graphs.
Investigate and determine the cause of data alignment errors in ArcMap.
Create and edit data stored in a geodatabase.
Perform proximity and overlay analyses.
Query data and create feature selections based on user-specified criteria.
Produce and share map layouts.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. We do not advise candidates to use this web course to measure their readiness to pass a certification exam, as correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for ArcGIS Desktop Professional
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.0, 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the ArcGIS Desktop Professional certification exam. You can use these sample questions to assess your knowledge and skills in using ArcGIS software to
Determine if project data meets required accuracy standards.
Solve data alignment problems.
Visualize data on maps.
Manage and maintain data.
Perform various analysis and geoprocessing tasks.
Share GIS resources created in ArcGIS.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The set of sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. We do not advise candidates to use this web course to measure their readiness to pass a certification exam, as correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for Enterprise Administration Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help candidates prepare for the Enterprise Administration Associatecertification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills to:
Deploy an ArcGIS for Server implementation.
Maintain performance of an ArcGIS Server site.
Prepare and publish ArcGIS for Server services.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. We do not advise candidates to use this web course to measure their readiness to pass a certification exam, as correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for Enterprise System Design Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the Enterprise System Design Associate certification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills to:
Apply fundamental ArcGIS database concepts such as replication and versioning.
Leverage the functional capabilities of different service types.
Evaluate the impacts of caching, map authoring approaches, cartographic elements, and network and hardware resources on system performance and scalability.
Map business requirements to appropriate system design solutions.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. We do not advise candidates to use this web course to measure their readiness to pass a certification exam, as correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for Enterprise Geodatabase Management Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the Enterprise Geodatabase Management Associatecertification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills related to:
System requirements for relational database management systems
Installing ArcSDE and configuring and maintaining a geodatabase
Designing a geodatabase and geodatabase components
Data management and ArcGIS editing workflows
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the full scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. The course is not a graded assessment or a simulation of the actual testing environment; therefore, no certificate of completion will be provided. Correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass an Esri technical certification exam.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for Enterprise Geodatabase Management Professional
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the Enterprise Geodatabase Management Professionalcertification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills related to:
Installing and configuring enterprise geodatabases
Designing geodatabase components and behaviors that support data integrity
Efficient loading of data into a geodatabase
Optimizing geodatabase performance over time
Troubleshooting issues related to map performance and multiuser versioned editing
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. The course is not intended to be a graded assessment or a simulation of the actual testing environment; therefore, no certificate of completion will be provided. Correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass an Esri technical certification exam.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for ArcGIS Desktop Developer Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the ArcGIS Desktop Developer Associate certification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their ArcGIS, ArcObjects, and Python knowledge and skills related to:
Creating and modifying data.
Manipulating local and online content.
Performing geoprocessing tasks.
Creating custom tools, commands, and add-ins.
Creating and deploying ArcGIS Runtime and ArcGIS Engine applications.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect full the scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. The course is not intended to be a graded assessment or a simulation of the actual testing environment; therefore, no certificate of completion will be provided. Correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass an Esri technical certification exam.
Esri Technical Certification: Sample Questions for Web Application Developer Associate
Format: Web Course
Duration: 1 module (2 hours)
Price: Free
ArcGIS Version: 10.1
Authored by Esri
This set of sample questions is designed to help you prepare for the Web Application Developer Associate certification exam. Prospective candidates are encouraged to use this free resource to help understand how exam questions are structured and to help assess their knowledge and skills related to:
Choosing the appropriate layer type, renderer, and ArcGIS service for a given use case.
Creating applications that support efficient web-editing workflows.
Working with the ArcGIS REST API and ArcGIS Web APIs.
Troubleshooting service and application performance.
Securing services and applications.
Each question includes an explanation of the correct answer. After working through the set of questions, you will have a clearer understanding of how certification exam questions are structured and your readiness to take the exam.
The sample questions provided in this course do not reflect the full scope, distribution, or difficulty of actual certification exam questions. The course is not intended to be a graded assessment or a simulation of the actual testing environment; therefore, no certificate of completion will be provided. Correctly answering sample questions does not guarantee that a candidate will pass an Esri technical certification exam.
All the free Web Courses can be found here.
All Esri trianing can be found at http://www.esri.com/training/main/training-catalog.
