Considering the use of random fields in the Modifiable Areal Unit Problem

Abstract

The focus of the research will be on the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP) within which two aspects will be considered: the scale problem and the aggregation problem. In the article we consider the use of random fields theory for the needs of the “Scale Problem” issue. The Scale Problem is defined as a volatility of the results of analysis as a result of a change in the aggregation scale. In the case of the scale problem empirical studies should be conducted with application of simulations. Within the simulation analysis the realisations of random fields referred to irregular regions will be generated. First, the internal structure of spatial processes will be analysed. Next, we consider the theoretical foundations for random fields relative to irregular regions. The accepted properties of random fields will be based on the characteristics established for economic phenomena. The outcome of the task will be the development of a procedure for generating the vector of random fields with specified properties. Procedure for generating random fields will be used to simulations within the scale problem too. The research is funded by National Science Centre, Poland under the research project no. 2015/17/B/HS4/01004.