The final module of Computer Cartography returns us to Google Earth to work with KML (Keyhole Markup Language) files and explore some additional functionality of the software. We previously used Google Earth with data collected using ArcGIS Field Maps and a KML file of point data imported from ArcGIS. The use of KML files with Google Earth allows us to share geographic data with a general audience that may have zero to [...]
The semester is accelerating and we move into the 6th lab covering Isarithmic Mapping! Following choropleth mapping, this thematic map type is the second most widely used in cartography. Isarithmic maps consider geographic phenomenon to be continuous and smooth, with measurements in the area of interest presumed to change gradually between data point locations instead of abruptly. There are two primary types of isarithmic mapping. Often associated with meteorology, isometric [...]
Module 5 for Computer Cartography advances our understanding and usage of choropleth maps while introducing us to proportional and graduated symbol map types. A choropleth map can be described as a statistical thematic map showing differences in quantitative area data (enumeration units) using color shading or patterns. Choropleth maps are not to be used to map totals, such as ones based on unequal sized areas or unequal sized populations. Instead data [...]
Module 4 for Computer Cartography contrasts 2010 Census Data for Miami-Dade County, Florida using multiple data classification methods. Our objective is to distribute quantitative data into thematic maps based upon two criteria. The first series of maps shows the percentage of the total population per Census Tract of the number of seniors aged 65 and older. The second map array uses normalized data to partition Census Tracts based upon [...]
Module 3 for Computer Cartography builds on Module 2, where we started developing a routine for good map design with guidelines for labeling, annotation and layout text. Building upon that knowledge base, we focus on cartographic design, the method with which maps are conceived and created. The Gestalt Principles of perceptual organization factor into the design process for the Module 3 lab assignment. There are several key concepts integral [...]
