Obituary

Abstract

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Positional quality control in cartography based on linear features represents an evolution of the traditional procedures based on points. These methods have been developed independently or theoretically and applied as examples to small, disparate databases. In this paper, we present a unified, complete methodology using the existing methods and applying them to official cartographic databases in the region of Andalucía (southern Spain). For this purpose, we use a sample of roadways observed with GPS. The results obtained demonstrate the viability of this control and the potential use of this methodology compared to traditional point-based quality control.     

The Use of Mental and Sketch Maps as a Tool to Evaluate Cartography Teaching Effectiveness

The paper describes mental maps and their use in teaching process. The survey conducted among students of geodesy and cartography resulted in 124 sketches. They were analysed from the point of view of cartographic methodology and used methods of presentation. The different elements and methods were counted and helped in evaluation of teaching process effectiveness, showing changes in students’ knowledge of certain rules of cartographic language and design and their applications. As the survey was conducted in relation to courses taught, the results are of great value in increasing the quality of cartographic content of these courses and teaching methods.     

The Society of University Cartographers – Its Growth and International Status

An attempt to capture and reflect the history, evolution, nature and status of the Society of Cartographers (SoC). Although a small organization numerically, the skill, expertise and dedication of its active members, though summer schools, technical journal, newsletters and especially its rich and informative website, are providing access to knowledge and experience both nationally and globally. This influence is also reflected through the direct involvement of leading SoC office-holders in other national and international mapping organisations. The SoC clearly punches above its weight. It has made a difference to the world of mapping, and continues to do so     

Fifty Years of The Cartographic Journal

The Cartographic Journal was established a year after the founding of the British Cartographic Society in 1963 and so 2014 marked 50 years since the first, general-distribution journal of cartography in English was published. This paper offers a brief account of its genesis and its development in reflecting and shaping the leading themes in cartographic research over the years, and explains how the Society's flagship publication and an official journal of the ICA (International Cartographic Association) has maintained its position at the forefront of academic publishing in cartography.     

Mapping the Results of Geographically Weighted Regression

Abstract

Geographically weighted regression (GWR) is a local spatial statistical technique for exploring spatial nonstationarity. Previous approaches to mapping the results of GWR have primarily employed an equal step classification and sequential no-hue colour scheme for choropleth mapping of parameter estimates. This cartographic approach may hinder the exploration of spatial nonstationarity by inadequately illustrating the spatial distribution of the sign, magnitude, and significance of the influence of each explanatory variable on the dependent variable. Approaches for improving mapping of the results of GWR are illustrated using a case study analysis of population density–median home value relationships in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. These approaches employ data classification schemes informed by the (nonspatial) data distribution, diverging colour schemes, and bivariate choropleth mapping.     

Reasserting Design Relevance in Cartography: Some Concepts

Abstract

Cartographers have always been concerned about the appearance of maps and how the display marries form with function. An appreciation of map design and the aesthetic underpins our fascination with how each and every mark works to create a display with a specific purpose. Yet debates about what constitutes design and what value it has in map-making persist. This is particularly acute in the modern map-making era as new tools, technology, data and approaches make map-making a simpler process in some respects, yet make designing high-quality maps difficult to master in others. In the first part of a two-part paper, we explore what we mean by map design and how we might evaluate it and apply it in a practical sense. We consider the value of aesthetics and also discuss the role of art in cartography taking account of some recent debates that we feel bring meaning to how we think about design. Our intent here is to reassert some of the key ideas about map design in cartography and to provide a reference for the second part of the paper where we present the results of a survey of cartographers. The survey was used to identify a collection of maps that exhibit excellence in design which we will showcase as examplars.     

Cartography in the Context of Sciences: Theoretical and Technological Considerations

Abstract

In an introductory theoretical way, the authors attempt to place cartography into the general context of sciences. Based on the traditional definition describing cartography as a science, technique and art, its defined scientific role in the development of geographic thinking is analysed. This approach corresponds to the procedural method in epistemology. Cartography is, according to a general model in science, classified considering the fact whether its sources of origin of the concepts, its principles and postulates are genuine or derivatives from other disciplines. After comparative statements between Cartography and Geography, an analysis of all environmental sciences with reference to the use of technologies is carried out.     

Deconstructing Galbraith: A Geostatistical Analysis of Cartographic Intent

Abstract

This study uses cartometric techniques to reveal cartographic design considerations operative in Frank H. Galbraith’s 1897 railway mail service training maps. Galbraith’s maps make extensive use of humorous cartouches intended to serve as mnemonic devices for learning railway mail service routes. Poisson and quadrat point pattern analyses are performed on all eight maps in the series to determine whether the mimetic symbols are clustered along the railway mail routes or dispersed throughout the mapped spaces to achieve better graphic balance. Evidence overwhelmingly indicates that the placement of the mnemonic symbols was primarily driven by design considerations. The study therefore proves that it is possible to use cartometric techniques to deconstruct the map document to determine the cartographic design principles operative during the map's construction.     

A Synopsis of Nigeria’s Indigenous Cartographic Heritage

Abstract

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Over the ages, Nigerians have had various indigenous ways of spatial representation, otherwise known as ‘alternative cartographies’. Paradoxically, however, the indigenous cartographic heritage of the Nigerian people has altogether remained unsung despite its immense contributions to societal development. This paper, therefore, is a modest attempt aimed at bringing the forgotten issue of Nigeria’s cartographic legacy to the limelight. The paper takes a bird’s-eye look at Nigeria’s homegrown cartographic heritage. The various local means of representing and communicating geospatial information are discussed. The paper equally highlights the invaluable benefits of indigenous cartographic heritage as well as how to preserve such heritage.