Courses : Syllabi : 381
Geography 381 Computerized Map Design
Instructor
Course Description
Cartography is a synthesis of science, techniques, and art. This course introduces students to cartographic design and principles. The lectures will emphasize the construction of maps with modern methods by using computers and GIS software. The map construction includes scale, projections, generalization, symbols, classification, color scheme, and visualization. The lab exercises will provide hands-on experiences and equip students with the fundamental skills for advanced GIS courses and computer mapping. Besides the basic training in cartographic techniques, the major goals of this class are to:
- Understand the principles of cartographic design and map construction.
- Generate maps with appropriate cartographic skills.
- Encourage students to explore advanced cartographic issues, such as visualization, on-line mapping, and cognitive science.
Prerequisites
None
Grading
Your grade in this course will be based on the following elements:
- Lab Exercises: 50%
- Class participation (lectures): 5%
- Midterm: 20%
- Final Exam: 25%
Students must attend and sign-in for each lab session, meeting twice every week. Lab exercises focus on the training of cartographic skills by using Freehand computer drawing software and the ArcGIS software package. Students are required to attend full lab periods to receive a passing grade. To encourage good attendance, TWO points will be taken off the whole course final grade for EACH missed lab. Lab assignments are due at the beginning of the lab due day. Late assignments will be docked 20% per day, and will be effective at the lab on the due date. Students must hand in all assignments by 5:00pm, on the last day of classes to receive a passing grade (D- or above) regardless of how many points have been docked.
Books and Materials
Dent, B. D., Torguson, J. S., and Hodler, T. W. (2009), Cartography: Thematic Map Design, 6th ed., New York, McGraw-Hill.
Tsou, M. 2008, Lecture notes for GEOG381: Computerized Map Design (Maps and Graphic Methods)
Additional readings as assigned.
Weekly Topics
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| Week One | Introduction to the Cartographic Process |
| Week Two | Map Functions and Types Map Design: Abstraction/Constraints |
| Week Three | Map Projections GPS and Remote sensing |
| Week Four | Generalization Controls and Elements Scale Effects on Map Data |
| Week Five | Typography Map Composition and Visual Variables |
| Week Six | Thematic Map Symbols |
| Week Seven | Line and Area Symbols |
| Week Eight | Use of Color Review Exam |
| Week Nine | Mid-term Exam Graphing |
| Week Ten | Guest Lecture |
| Week Eleven | Data Classing |
| Week Twelve | Mapping Enumerated Data |
| Week Thirteen | Choropleth mapping Dasymetric mapping |
| Week Fourteen | Mapping Uncertainty Introduction to GIS |
| Week Fifteen | Internet Mapping and Multimedia Map Use and Misuse |