Cartography

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Abstract

This subject builds on students' existing GIS abilities by introducing them to techniques for the mapping presentation of spatial, numerical and table-based data in order to maximise their effectiveness and simplify their interpretation. Students will learn how to design visualisations of information, taking into account the problems of human perception, variations in audience type, and the media or presentation environment selected including when working with and mapping Indigenous Australian data and knowledges. They will learn how to classify spatial and non-spatial, multi-dimensional, discrete and continuous data to elicit the most information. Dynamic methods such as animation, interactive atlases and data exploration tools will also be addressed.

Syllabus

Cartography and data visualisation;Map fundamentals;Graphing and data classification;Colour theory and applications;Map text and labelling;Map generalisation;Proportional symbol, dot and dasymetric mapping;Representing continuous phenomena;Map animation;Overview / recap of Indigenous (including Australian) mapping, astronomy & navigation;Mapping Indigenous knowledges - perspectives from Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural settings; andCurrent methods and applications of mapping Indigenous … For more content click the Read More button below.

Cartography and data visualisation;
Map fundamentals;
Graphing and data classification;
Colour theory and applications;
Map text and labelling;
Map generalisation;
Proportional symbol, dot and dasymetric mapping;
Representing continuous phenomena;
Map animation;
Overview / recap of Indigenous (including Australian) mapping, astronomy & navigation;
Mapping Indigenous knowledges - perspectives from Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural settings; and
Current methods and applications of mapping Indigenous knowledges.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able apply and describe methods of thematic and statistical map classification;

be able to apply and describe methods of symbolisation, map elements and typography;

be able to compare map projection characteristics and apply these appropriately in cartographic outputs;

be able to produce and critically evaluate univariate and bivariate analysis maps;

be able to apply and describe web publishing methods for cartography;

be able to critically evaluate colonial impacts on mapping and cartography, especially in relation to Indigenous Australian knowledge systems;

be able to demonstrate a professional understanding of ethical considerations when working with Indigenous Australian data and and data sovereignty in cartography; and

be able to explain how maps can used to manipulate public understanding of geospatial information.

Assumed knowledge

Knowledge of Geographical Information Science equivalent to SPA431 or SPA215.

Learning resources

Additional resources required by students

Spatial information software (ArcGIS) is used in this subject. Software is supplied.