Why geographers use maps

Prom the ancient days to the upper half of the 19th century, maps were the only means of expressing the location of geographical facts.

They were a constituent part and also an important tool of geography. Since the end of the 19th century, geography has been at a stage of establishing its branches into many independent disciplines. On the other hand, cartography was making progress on map projection with the help of geodesy and mathematics, on improving techniques of drawing and on detailed to-pographic mapping. The cartographers, thus, become specialists independent from geo-graphers, leaving only a small number of trained geographers still possessing certain ability of making small scale general and thematic maps.

Since geographers can easily use the maps which are compiled by cartographers, gradually they are unable to compose maps and to explain their research works in their writings with the help of maps. These spatial relationships are critical to any study as human geography demands research based on spatial phenomenon. An example of how this could be used is in the mapping of census data, with the information grouped by locale and these groups displayed with maps to show proximity.

Ordnance survey style maps are best suited for this purpose as they also display services and infrastructure which often complements the demographic data being studied. Geographical Information Systems are also crucial to geographical research and analysis. GIS gives human geographers the ability to transform basic maps into more specialised data visualisations, whether it be creating a 3D model of topographic relief and adding layers of infrastructure and data, or grouping data and creating choropleth maps or data distributions.

These types of data plotting have brought mapping straight into the 21st century and can show innovation and creativity. An example of GIS in use would be a 3D topographic model of a study area overlayed with age structure data and transport networks, with emphasis on highlighting which age groups use each type of transport most often. This would have a wide array of uses such as being able to show businesses where to focus advertising strategy, or to give the government key information about whether their public transport policies are working — both areas where practical human geography is very important.

This creativity is not limited to information systems and can also be found within many other types of maps, indeed the versatility of maps is another reason why they are so important. Do we need maps? What are the disadvantages of concept map? Disadvantages of concept mapping.

They can be visually overwhelming or messy when used to explore large concepts. What are the five uses of map? The five different types of map and their uses. Part of the beauty of maps is that they can be used in a variety of different ways, from navigation, to establishing ownership, to presenting information. What are the 6 basic features of a map? Why are paper maps bad? Why do I enjoy looking at maps? What are the two main types of maps? What are the 4 types of geography?

Different Types of Geography. Human Geography. Who is the first geographer? What are the benefits of using concept maps? A concept map:. Helps visual learners grasp the material however all learners benefit from the activity Helps students see relationships between ideas, concepts, or authors. When would you use a concept map? What is brain mapping used for? Who invented map? For example, geographers can overlay aerial or satellite images with GIS data, such as population density in a given region, and create digital maps.

They then use the maps to inform governments, businesses, and the general public on a variety of issues, such as developing marketing strategies; planning homes, roads, and landfills; and responding to disasters. Physical geographers examine the physical aspects of a region and how they relate to humans. They study features of the natural environment, such as landforms, climates, soils, natural hazards, water, and plants.

For example, physical geographers may map where a natural resource occurs in a country or study the implications of proposed economic development on the surrounding natural environment. Human geographers analyze the organization of human activity and its relationships with the physical environment. Human geographers often combine issues from other disciplines into their research, which may include economic, environmental, medical, cultural, social, or political topics.

In their research, some human geographers rely primarily on statistical techniques or quantitative methods, and others rely on nonstatistical sources or qualitative methods, such as field observations and interviews. Geographers often work on projects with people in related fields. For example, geographers may work with urban planners , civil engineers , legislators, or real estate professionals to determine the best location for new public transportation infrastructure.

Some people with a geography degree become postsecondary teachers. Many people who study geography and who use GIS in their work are employed as surveyors , cartographers and photogrammetrists , surveying and mapping technicians , urban and regional planners , or geoscientists.

Many geographers do fieldwork to gather information and data. For example, geographers often make site visits to observe geographic features, such as the landscape and environment. Some geographers travel to the region they are studying, and sometimes that means working in foreign countries and remote locations. Some positions allow candidates to substitute work experience or GIS proficiency for an advanced degree.

Top research positions usually require a Ph. Most geography programs include courses in both physical and human geography, statistics or math, remote sensing, and GIS. In addition, courses in specialized areas of expertise are becoming increasingly important because the geography field is broad and interdisciplinary. For example, business, economics, or real estate courses are becoming increasingly important for geographers working in private industry.

Students and new graduates often gain experience through internships. This type of practical experience allows students to develop new skills, explore their interests, and become familiar with geography in practice. Internships can be useful for jobseekers, because some employers prefer workers who have practical experience. Although certification is not required, most positions require geographers to be proficient in GIS, and certification can demonstrate a level of professional expertise.

Candidates may qualify for certification through a combination of education, professional experience, and contributions to the profession, such as publications or participation in conferences. Candidates may qualify for certification with 3 years of experience in GIS, four references, and the passing of a written exam.