SPA212 Cartography and Data Visualisation (8)

This subject introduces the student to the 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.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2019.

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

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Environmental Sciences

Assumed Knowledge
SPA105 or SPA115

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • Appreciate the history and technological development of mapping as communication and as a science;
  • Be able to design appropriate visualisations for a range of spatial and nonspatial information, and for a range of delivery environments and media;
  • Understand cartographic fundamentals and their treatment in spatial information systems, while developing graphical communication skills to supplement their oral and written skills;
  • Be able to effectively utilise appropriate statistical classification methods to elicit information from different types of data;
  • Be able to incorporate human cognitive issues in effective design of graphics;
  • Be able to use the World Wide Web as a source for maps and current mapping technology.

Syllabus

This 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.

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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