Principles of Cartography (341-0-20)

Instructors

John Crandall Hudson
847/491-2855
Locy Hall #104

Meeting Info

555 Clark B01: Mon, Wed, Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

The first half of the course covers basic concepts of cartography. Scale, measuring position on the Earth, coordinate systems, land survey systems, USGS topographic maps, spherical distance computation, and other measurement concepts are covered. The second half the course is devoted to map projections: their history, development, application, and comparison, with a focus on using Geocart software. Students choose a particular projection and do a short research project and make a PowerPoint presentation on its history and application. Two or three assignments per week involve calculations, map analysis, and map evaluation. Ability to work with and solve trigonometric equations is absolutely necessary in order to complete the assignments. Reading materials and assignments will be posted on Canvas.

Registration Requirements

None

Teaching Method

Much of the class is involved in "how to do it" instruction. There will be instructional modules and assignment modules posted on Canvas Evaluation

Evaluation Method

There will be two exams, one short paper, a PowerPoint presentation on the paper, and weekly assignments. The first exam deals with coordinate systems and distance computation; the second covers map projections. The assignments will involve computation, use of data, accessing maps online, and interpretation of maps.

Class Materials (Required)

All reading materials will be posted on Canvas. Download programs Geocart and Google Earth (free) to use for some assignments. There is nothing to buy.

Class Attributes

Natural Sciences Distro Area