GV1MAPNU-Cartography

Module Provider: Geography and Environmental Science
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: NUIST based
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Kevin White
Email: k.h.white@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Maps are visual representations of the cultural and physical environment. This course introduces the science, technology, and art of map making. Lectures will cover the principles of cartography including map projections, symbolization, generalization, colour use, typography, elements of map design, etc. A series of hands-on exercises are designed to help understand the cartographic theories discussed in the lectures. Students will use GIS software packages to design and produce maps.

The Module lead at NUIST is Professor Yechao Yan (yanyechao@nuist.edu.cn).

Aims:

Maps are visual representations of the cultural and physical environment. This course introduces the science, technology, and art of map making. Lectures will cover the principles of cartography including map projections, symbolization, generalization, colour use, typography, elements of map design, etc. A series of hands-on exercises are designed to help understand the cartographic theories discussed in the lectures. Students will use GIS software packages to design and produce maps.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of this module, it is expected that students will:

• Understand projection distortion and know how to choose appropriate map projections


• Be able to use type, symbols, and colors effectively to communicate the map purpose.


• Be able to strategically reduce details and emphasize the map purpose using generalization techniques.


• Learn about commonly used mapping techniques for the creation of major types of thematic maps


• Be able to use GIS software to construct maps professionally (for a research project, presentation or publication, etc.)


• Demonstrate skills of critical thinking through analysis, evaluation and appreciation of the maps that they encounter in their everyday lives

Additional outcomes:

• Develop IT skills through the use of computer applications


• Improve proficiency in visual and oral presentation

Outline content:

The topics covered in cartography will include an introduction, basic geodesy, coordinate systems and map projections, map scale, generalization, symbolization, color theory and its use in map design, typography and lettering, principles of graphic design, and mapping techniques to create choropleth maps, proportional symbol maps, dot maps, multivariate map as well as maps that are used to visualize geographic surfaces.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

This module will be taught through a series of lectures and computer labs during the Spring Term. Guided independent study will be enabled by carefully selected further reading, supported by homework assignments and class discussions.