SPA512 Cartography and Data Visualisation (8)

CSU Discipline Area: Spatial Science (SPASC)

Duration: One session

Abstract:

This subject builds on a student's existing GIS abilities by introducing them to techniques for the 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. They will be taught how to classify spatial and non-spatial, multi-dimensional, discrete and continuous data to elicit the most information from them. Dynamic methods such as animation, interactive atlases, and data exploration tools will also be addressed.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations

Session 1
Distance	Wagga Wagga

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: SPA512

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to:

contextualise the history and technological development of mapping as communication and as a science;
design appropriate visualisations for a range of spatial and non-spatial information, and for a range of delivery environments and media;
apply cartographic fundamentals and their treatment in spatial information systems, while developing graphical communication skills to supplement their oral and written skills;
effectively utilise appropriate statistical classification methods to elicit information from different types of data;
incorporate human cognitive issues in effective design of graphics;
use the World Wide Web as a source for maps and current mapping technology.

Syllabus:

The subject will cover the following topics:

Examples of both spatial and non-spatial information visualisation;
The history of mapping, emphasising its role as a communication tool;
Cognitive issues relating to the design of visualisations, such as human memory, colour perception, comprehension and layout;
Mapping techniques for both continuous and discrete phenomena;
Statistical data classification methods;
The selection, design, and layout of map fundamentals considering the method of delivery and/or the medium of publication;
Static and dynamic methods of representing two, three- and multi-dimensional data;
Current topics in animation, data exploration and electronic atlas development.

Specialised Resources

Students are expected to be able to gain access for a significant amount of the session to an IBM PC or one of its many variants.

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