Addison's GIS Journey

The data classification lab focused on analyzing census data using four different classification methods. The four different classification methods included: Equal Interval, Quantile, Standard Deviation, and Natural Breaks. By using the same data with four different classification methods we were able to to see how differently data can be presented.  Equal Interval: The equal interval classification class breaks are determined by dividing the range into desired number of equal-width class intervals. With the classes being divided into equal-width classes it makes the map easy to interpret and can help map complex spatial patterns. The classes do not consider the distribution of the data on a number line. Quantile:  The quantile classification equally divides the total number of values into the desired number of classes. An issue with using this method is that it can place similar values into different classes or different values in the same class . Standard Deviation:  Th...

This week was focused on cartographic design and implementing Gestalt's Principles of perceptual organization into map making. These principles try to describe the manner in which the map user see the components of the image and then organize them. Cartographic examples of Gestalt's principles include: closure, common fate, continuity, figure-ground, proximity, similarity, smallness/area, and symmetry. With this lab ward 7 schools within the Washington D.C. area were mapped (Figure 1). Principle's focused on while making this map were visual hierarchy, contrast, figure-ground, and balance.  Figure 1 I implemented visual hierarchy by using thematic symbols to represent the schools. The map extent and roads are different shades of gray helping them blend into the background and help the schools stand out. By placing the title in a dark gray box with white font at the top of the map it makes it easily identifiable. The legends of school’s types and list of schools with names a...

This lab was focused on using typographic principles to label various features on a map. Understanding the basic elements of typography can help influence your map's legibility. It is important to create maps that are readable and effectively communicate geographic information. Selecting the right font style, size, and placement can impact the legibility of your map.  The map below was created using ArcGIS pro and data layers were given. The map represents major features across the state of Florida. The labeling tab was used to label all the key features on the map, such as the cities, rivers, and swamp/marsh land. Within the labeling tab the font style, size, and color were edited to match the feature it was associated with.  A customization I did on the map was altering the color scheme according to the features. The water features are all shades of blue, and the swamp/marsh areas are a muddy green. Cities on map are symbolized with dots and the capital is symbolized with a ...

The first week of cartography helped to understand common map design principles, and identifying good versus bad map designs. An important part of cartography is understanding and developing cartographic styles in accordance with established principles. Edward Tufte's 20 map design principles were combined into "6 commandments." These commandments emphasize that information on the map should be substantial and effectively labeled, the map should be accurate, and to minimize any extra elements that are non essential. Two maps were evaluated for the lab one good map and one bad map. Good map design The map I chose for the good map design depicts Easter Island. The map shows the island in the middle with the supporting map elements balanced around it over the open water. The legend is descriptive and concise, showing the audience landmarks around the island. A color gradient legend is also given to show the change in elevation throughout the island. An inset map is also incl...

Hello! My name is Addison and I am originally from Pensacola. I graduated from the University of West Florida in 2022 with a bachelors in marine biology. I am currently working full time for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. I joined the program because I had been interested in GIS and wanted to gain knowledge and skills in the GIS world. I hope to use what I learn from these courses to further my career. Story map  link:  https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6726b64d434d4cab92ee442ccb2026f5