Chapter 6 Cognitive Processes and Cartographic Maps

Abstract

This chapter discusses cognitive processes and cartographic maps. Maps are important in daily life. The efficiency of the cognitive processes used by people interacting with maps is a key issue for geographers. Research on the cartographic map has naturally focused on their construction. The selection, classification, simplification, and symbolization decisions made by cartographers shape their maps. Cognitive maps are, in turn, shaped by these cartographic products. A good example of this relationship is the impact of map projections on the impressions of countries. The sizes and shapes of countries in a person's cognitive map undoubtedly are related to how that information was represented on frequently encountered cartographic maps. The studies discussed in the chapter shows that other variables, such as a map's complexity, orientation, and color design, also impacted people's ability to efficiently use the map. In addition, research on the map reader has measured reaction times and error patterns. They have focused on differences between cognitive maps encoded as primary or secondary information and using verbal or imagery processes.