GIST 2110 Techniques in Cartography

This course introduces the principles and practices of digital map making and cartographic representation. Content will emphasize basic principles of map design and creation and will employ techniques associated with Geographic Information System (GIS), data analysis, and output phases. Topics will include map design principles, symbolization, data classification, map scale and generalization, typography, and color theory. Prerequisites: Completion of GIST 1200 or GIST 2310. (3 lect., 3 lab)

Credits

4 credits

Major Topics

• Introduction to GIS cartography
• Cartographic design and map layout
• Principles of symbolization
• Data classification models
• Map scale and generalization
• Map lettering
• Principles of color
• Cartographic graphing techniques
• Attribute data and thematic representation
• Applications of spatial queries in making digital maps
• Applications of spatial joins in making digital maps
• Geoprocessing and map overlay functions in map making

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Explain the significance and applications of cartography within a geographic information system (GIS).

2. Apply cartographic design principles including visual hierarchy, balance, and contrast to thematic map creation.

3. Describe spatial data characteristics and appropriate visual variables for point, line, and polygon data.

4. Select appropriate classification methods based on spatial patterns in thematic maps.

5. Apply cartographic generalization principles to the creation of general reference maps.

6. Apply map lettering functions and typographic guidelines to feature labels on general reference and thematic maps.

7. Apply color theory to thematic maps.

8. Incorporate graph design principles to statistical information.

9. Apply field calculator queries to thematic map creation.

10. Apply attribute and spatial queries to geospatial data.

11. Analyze multiple variables using map overlays.