Module 1 - Introduction to metadata || Exercise 1 - Name That Photo
Module 2 - Metadata in the Geospatial World || Exercise 2 - The Big Blow
Metadata Tutorial Home || Metadata Home

Module 1
Introduction to Metadata

Next time you are at a social gathering, ask someone if they have ever heard of metadata. Chances are you'll get a response indicating they have not (a blank stare, a chuckle, or a quick "no" as they politely excuse themselves and head back to the hors d'oeuvre table)!

Amazingly, we are surrounded by metadata. You may just not be aware of it.

Imagine having two identical cans placed in front of you with the labels removed. One of the cans contains tuna, and the other contains cat food. Your task is to choose one.

Here's the catch. You have to eat what you choose! Would you feel comfortable with your task?

Without labels, probably not. The labels are an example of metadata. They may describe the contents of the can and provide such information as what's in the can, the nutritional value of the contents, the number of calories and fat grams, whether the contents contain preservatives, how they were processed, the weight, the name of the company that packed it and its location, and more. In this example, the labels on the cans contain the metadata. In the geospatial world, metadata captures information about data. Next page