Cartographic Design Lab

 Cartographic Design Lab Summary

In this lab, we practiced the principles of cartographic design by creating a map layout that communicates spatial information clearly and effectively. The main goal was to apply visual hierarchy and thoughtful design choices to produce a professional-quality map of Ward 7's Public schools in the Greater Washington DC Area.

Concepts and Tools:

▪ Gestalt’s Principles 
▪ Visual Hierarchy, Figure-ground distinction, Contrast, Balance
▪ Map frames and layouts in ArcGIS Pro
▪ Labels and Annotations in ArcGIS Pro
▪ Symbology in ArcGIS Pro
▪ Graphics and Text in ArcGIS Pro

Map: 

I used visual weight to ensure that the end user is drawn to the intended information as well as background colors which complemented the map extent. Additionally, I used the map elements in a way that is user friendly and balances the layout. Furthermore I achieved visual hierarchy with my map by sticking to Gestalts principles drawing attention to the school symbology which I have broken down by visual weight using large symbology for High schools and smaller symbology for middle and elementary schools.



Student Learning Outcomes:
▪ Conceptualize and create maps according to need of end user
▪ Establish and implement visual hierarchy to emphasize important map features
▪ Apply contrast to map features to imply their relative importance
▪ Employ figure ground to make important map features appear closer to the end user
▪ Achieve map balance with the harmonious organization of map elements and empty space
▪ Symbolize layers by category
▪ Create an inset map and establish an extent indicator

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