Module 7: Google Earth

     This week's lesson discussed cartography and GIS in the modern era and various forms it has taken and may take. Included in these was geocollaboration, cloud computing, volunteered geographic information, 3D mapping, and several others. The lab tasked us with converting layers to .kmz files using the Layer to KML tool in ArcGIS Pro, and with opening these .kmz files in Google Earth. We were required to make a map and map tour utilizing these .kmz files. Once the files were opened in Google Earth, they were added to My Places and an image overlay was added to the map. The Legend image file was uploaded for the image overlay and positioned in the desired location. The group containing the legend overlay and .kmz files was then shared as a .kmz file, producing the map in the screenshot above.
     The above map depicts population densities in South Florida counties via a dot density symbology, with one dot equivalent to 10,000 people. The map also includes surface waters with symbology that varies by type of water feature.

Module 6: Isarithmic Mapping

     This week's lesson covered isarithmic and flowline mapping. The lab had us explore continuous tone and hypsometric tinting utilizing a data set of annual precipitation (in) information for the state of Washington. The same data was truncated using the Int spatial analysis tool in ArcGIS Pro and a map was created implementing both continuous tone and hypsometric tinting. The resulting map is pictured above.
     The above map displays the annual precipitation (in) of Washington state shown via continuous tone. Elevations are depicted via a hypsometric tint overlayed on top of the precipitation data. Included, is a brief description of how the data was collected and interpolated.

Module 5: Choropleth Mapping

     This week's lab tasked us with creating a choropleth map utilizing population and wine consumption data for European countries. Through the lab, we further explored data classification methods and delved into graduated versus proportional symbologies. The resulting map and its inset is pictured above.
     The map depicts wine consumption (liters per capita) and population density (population per sq. km) using the Natural Breaks data classification method. This method was chosen because it displays enough variation in the data that the map does not appear monotone, but also does not force data values into groups with outliers. This method also allows for easier interpretation of cultural variations due to there being several countries with similar population densities that partake in different amounts of wine consumption. A graduated symbology was utilized due to ease of interpretation for the end user and because it paired well with the customized symbols used. The wine consumption symbols were created in Paint. They were then cleaned up and turned into .svg files using the Image Trace function in Adobe Illustrator.

Module 4: Data Classification

     The above image is a map depicting the percentage of census tract populations over the age of 65 in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The map displays this information via the Natural Breaks (top left), Quantile (top right), Equal Interval (bottom left), and Standard Deviation (bottom right) methods of data classification. Each method is mapped to the same scale.
     This week's lesson covered different methods of data classification. We learned about the Natural Breaks, Equal Interval, Quantile, Maximum Breaks, and Standard Deviation methods and their various pros and cons. In lab we were tasked with creating two maps of census data using four of the aforementioned data classification methods. The first map, pictured above, was made using the percentage of the population over the age of 65 in each of the census tracts. The second map, not pictured, was created using the total count of people over 65 per square mile. We were then asked to compare the methods and the two data presentations of the maps. The same four classification methods were used for both maps.

Module 3: Cartographic Design

     This week's lesson covered the Gestalt Principles of Design. We were tasked with making a map of Ward 7 schools in the Washington D.C. area implementing these design principles. The resulting map is pictured above with an inset map displaying the location of Ward 7 in relation to Washington D.C. and the surrounding states.
     The lab this week was fascinating! I had never considered just how much information and planning could be put into something as simple as color choice. I learned some new techniques in ArcGIS Pro and look forward to using them in future maps. I hope to create more complex, sophisticated, and aesthetically pleasing maps with the knowledge I gained this week.

Module 2: Typography

     The above map depicts Marathon, Florida and its location within the Florida Keys. The map also details the islands that make up Marathon and some notable locations and cities on these islands.
     The lesson this week centered on typography and its appropriate use, placement, and styles. We were tasked with creating a base map in ArcGIS Pro, exporting it as a web map to ArcGIS Online, and then importing the base map into Adobe Illustrator. In Illustrator, we used the base map to create the above map and inset map. The majority of this lab consisted of exploring Adobe Illustrator and various ways to place, and customize, text and features within the program.
     The lab was quite intriguing and I learned a great deal. Something that I was not able to fully grasp and look forward to mastering is utilizing the text on a path tool. I had difficulties with it and ultimately opted to pursue a different route for my labels, but I intend to revisit it and implement it more in the future.

Module 1: Map Critique and Adobe Illustrator

     This week's lesson focused on the principles of design and the commandments of map-making. The lesson also covered exporting a map from ArcGIS Pro to ArcGIS Online, and then importing the web map from ArcGIS Online to Adobe Illustrator. We were asked to select and critique two maps, one good and one poor, according to the principles of design. The selected good map (top) and poor map (bottom) are pictured above.
            The Fern Hollow Trail map elements and labels convey their information clearly and effectively; additionally, they occupy negative space and do not obscure any crucial aspects of the map. Thus, the map is an excellent example of the third, fourth, and fifth mapping commandments. The austere appearance of the map represents the first mapping commandment; only the important information has been included, such as trails, campsites, bridges, and logging roads. The simplicity of the map appeals to me, giving a clean and organized look to the map. I also enjoy the layout of the map elements, specifically how they frame the information being displayed. Though I normally prefer color, the greyscale has a somewhat refreshing charm to it.
            The poor-quality map is extremely cluttered and difficult to read. The map elements are mixed in with the various features and nigh impossible to find, there are also two scale bars present. All of this breaks the third, fourth, and fifth map commandments. It is difficult to tell what area is being displayed, this could be fixed by changing the map extent to encompass a larger area. The scale bar and north arrow are both hidden amongst the clutter. A solution to this would be to place them in any available negative space or to create a blank background to place them atop. Additionally, there is no need for two scale bars. The best way to reduce the clutter and clean up the map is to either to remove a few feature layers or to adjust symbology so that the less important layers fade more into the background. The current state of the map has the various layers fighting for attention.

Introduction Post

http://pns.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapTour/index.html?appid=07c88314b5e742cb8ee5c9131686daf4

     My name is Jacob McElroy. I am a graduate student at the University of West Florida and am currently enrolled in Computer Cartography as a pre-requisite to their Master's in GIS Administration program. I have been fascinated by maps since I was a child, but I discovered GIS during my years as an undergrad at the University of South Florida. I joined the program at UWF to diversify my resume and skill set. Upon completion of the Master's program, I hope to find fulfilling employment in a field that utilizes both my Bachelor's in Environmental Biology and the Master's in GIS Administration. In addition to my love of maps, I also enjoy singing, martial arts, hiking, camping, and traveling. The link to the above story map, details some of my favorite camping trips and destinations.