STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1. Define how maps tell a story.

 2. Critique the design of a given map in light of its intended audience and purpose.

 3. Recognize and discuss the primary elements of spatial data representation, especially data abstraction as it relates to a variety of map types.

 4. Demonstrate maps as representations of physical and human environments.

 5. Employ cartographic design principles to create and edit visual representations of geospatial data, including maps, graphs, and diagrams.

 6. Differentiate data considerations for mapping, including source materials, data abstraction (classification, selection and generalization), and map projections.

 7. Describe the content, limitations, and advantages of geographic scale.

 8. Recognize and explain the relationship between cartography and GIS.

 9. Define the characteristics and the importance of spatial data including data measurement levels, elementary statistical analysis, data classification, and fundamentals of geographic data.

 10. Apply the principles of graphic design, graphic hierarchy, and quantitative techniques used in thematic mapping.

 11. Analyze geographic information systems software.

 12. Gain exposure to GIS based cartography.

 13. Demonstrate how the selection of data classification and/or symbolization techniques affects the message of the thematic map.

 14. Apply earth geometry and its approximations, including geoids, ellipsoids, and spheres.

 15. Evaluate georeferencing systems, including coordinate systems and datums, horizontal and vertical.

 16. Define data quality, including geometric accuracy, thematic accuracy, resolution and precision.

 17. Compose data input, including field data collection, digitizing, scanning, and data conversion.

 18. Integrate  metadata, standards and structure.

 19. Apply principles of Map Design, including symbolization, color use, and typography

 20. Differentiate graphic representation techniques, including thematic mapping, multivariate displays, and web mapping

 

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I. Introduction To  Thematic  Mapping

 II. Nature of Geographic Data

 III. Statistics

 IV. Spatial data representation

 V. Cartographic abstraction

 VI. Scale and distance

 VII. Map projections

 VIII. Accuracy and error in scale and projection

 IX. Data Classification

 X. Dot Density

 XI. Map Design & Composition

 XII. Choropleth Classification

 XIII. Proportional Symbol Map

 XIV. Isarithmic  And 3D Maps

 XV. Value By Area And  Flow Maps

 XVI. Color Thematic Map Principles

 XVII. Web Mapping