Course Description
Introduction to use of maps and aerial photographs for analysis of geographic information. Examines the properties of maps and aerial photographs, measurement of map information, interpretation of qualitative and quantitative map information, unusual map types, graphs, aerial photography and imagery, satellite imagery, and digital mapping. Students will be exposed to the hands-on use of maps and information acquisition techniques for both paper and digital maps and photographs.
Athena Title
The World of Maps
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Successful completion of this course will provide the following learning outcomes: 1. An understanding of map properties of projections and scales; 2. An understanding of the geographic grid system, cadastral mapping, and map measurement; 3. To gain the ability to use maps for navigation and route planning; 4. To be able to extract information about terrain and landscape features; 5. To understand thematic mapping and to extract information from statistical maps; 6. To understand thematic mapping and to extract information from artistic and unusual map types; 7. An understanding of complex graphs and diagrams; 8. An understanding of how aerial photography and satellite imagery provide information for creating maps; 9. To obtain an appreciation for digital mapping and GIS applications. This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Communicate effectively through writing. This is met by a series of writing assignments associated with supplemental reading and data analysis. Communicate effectively through speech. This is met by oral presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation. Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty electronic interaction, data analysis activities and assignments, and exposure to GIS and cartographic visualization technologies. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and includes the following elements, which are accomplished through homework assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning efforts: Consider and engage opposing points of view Support a consistent purpose and point of view Assimilate, analyze, and present a body of information Analyze arguments Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this course, as it seeks to understand how maps have representational meaning that varies across cultures and classes, and considers ethical guidelines for cartographic production. Moral reasoning is developed through lectures, writing assignments, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning activities.
Topical Outline
The Variety of Maps The Geographic Grid System Map Scales Map Projections Topographic Maps: Map Coordinates Topographic Maps: Linear & Area Measurements Map Accuracy; Orienteering Cadastral Maps Map Symbolization Qualitative Thematic Maps Quantitative Thematic Maps (Point Symbols) Quantitative Thematic Maps (Line Symbols) Quantitative Thematic Maps (Area Symbols) Mapping Surfaces - 3D Map Abuses Electromagnetic Spectrum Aerial Photography Basics Aerial Photography Interpretation Electronic Imagery - Airborne Electronic Imagery - Satellite Imagery Global Positioning Systems Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Digital Data Electronic Atlases Route Planning Spatial Patterns
Syllabus
Public CV