Maps communicate information about the world by using symbols to represent specific ideas or concepts. The relationship between a map symbol and the information that symbol represents must be clear and easily interpreted. The symbol design process requires first an understanding of the underlying nature of the data to be mapped (e.g., its spatial dimensions and level of measurement), then the selection of symbols that suggest those data attributes. Cartographers developed the visual variable system, a graphic vocabulary, to express these relationships on maps. Map readers respond to the visual variable system in predictable ways, enabling mapmakers to design map symbols for most types of information with a high degree of reliability.
Describe situations in which methods of terrain representation (e.g., shaded relief, contours, hypsometric tints, block diagrams, profiles) are well suited
Create a map that represents both slope and aspect on the same map using the Moellering-Kimerling coloring method
Explain how maps that show the landscape in profile can be used to represent terrain
Differentiate 3-D representations from 21/2-D representations
Describe situations in which methods of terrain representation are poorly suited
Assess the involvement of non-GIS companies (e.g., Microsoft, Google) in the geospatial industry
Describe three applications of geospatial technology for different workforce domains (e.g., first responders, forestry, water resource management, facilities management)
Explain why software products sold by U.S. companies may predominate in foreign markets, including Europe and Australia
Describe the U.S. geospatial industry including vendors, software, hardware and data
CV-08 - Symbolization and the Visual Variables
Maps communicate information about the world by using symbols to represent specific ideas or concepts. The relationship between a map symbol and the information that symbol represents must be clear and easily interpreted. The symbol design process requires first an understanding of the underlying nature of the data to be mapped (e.g., its spatial dimensions and level of measurement), then the selection of symbols that suggest those data attributes. Cartographers developed the visual variable system, a graphic vocabulary, to express these relationships on maps. Map readers respond to the visual variable system in predictable ways, enabling mapmakers to design map symbols for most types of information with a high degree of reliability.