GV1MAPNU-Cartography

Module Provider: Geography and Environmental Science
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Semesters in which taught: Semester 2 module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: NUIST based
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Rob Fry
Email: r.j.fry@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.

Contact hours:

	Semester 1	Semester 2
Lectures		32
Practicals classes and workshops		16
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)		40
Exam revision/preparation		4
Preparation of practical report		8
Total hours by term	0	100
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	60
Written assignment including essay	20
Report	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:

A midterm exams and a final exam will be given. The midterm exam will cover material since the beginning of the course and will not be comprehensive in nature. The final exam will be comprehensive and will cover material covered throughout the entire course. While the final exam lasts one and a half hours, the duration of the midterm exam is only one hour.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

There will be 6 homework assignments and 8 lab exercises given throughout the semester. Most of the labs require students to write a short summary report. The due dates for both the homework and lab exercise reports are one week from the date when they are assigned.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of coursework as specified by the Department

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 22 September 2022