Abstract
This paper describes an application of the computer in the teaching of cartography to geography undergraduates at Brock University. A basic aim is to impart an awareness of the limitations of maps. A series of assignments, demonstrating the subjectivity of isopleth mapping, plays a crucial role in this. A hypothetical population distribution is created for an urban study area, and a geographical base file modelled on the Area Master File of the GRDSR system is developed. The class divides into groups, and each group independently partitions the study area into data zones and derives a set of population density values. Maps are produced in a controlled sequence by SYMAP, and the students investigate the effects of the following variables: map type, data zone partition, number and sequence of class intervals, method of interpolation and symbolization. Though the resulting maps all represent the same population distribution they differ greatly in appearance due to the subjective decisions made in the mapping process.
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