Geointerpretation: The Interpretive Potential of Maps

Abstract

Interpretive centers are well-known sources of geographic information—providing visitors with maps and facts about noteworthy places. Yet research on the effectiveness of interpretation in conveying geographic information is limited. Managing natural and cultural resources creates a need to communicate to the public about these places at both small and large scales. This raises the question of how people perceive different types of spaces and how they learn geographic and spatial information. This paper reviews the literature on spatial cognition, providing a theoretical and empirical basis to suggest strategies for interpretation. The recommendations of this paper are to: 1) design geographic interpretation around the three components of spatial knowledge; 2) create interpretive maps by blending the principles of map and exhibit design; and 3) provide visitors with multiple opportunities to learn about a geographic setting. Maps have considerable potential as tools for connecting visitors to the meaning of places.

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