An evolving cognitive-semiotic approach to geographic visualization and knowledge construction

In this short essay, I consider some relationships between the integrated cognitive-semiotic approach to cartographic representation that I develop in How Maps Work and Jacques Bertin’s contributions to cartographic and graphic theory. I relate my approach to his comprehensive semiologic framework for map and graphic design as well as his efforts toward a structured method of graphic information processing. In relation to the former, particular attention is given to critiques of Bertin’s “graphic variables” and work that extends them into the domains of time, sound, and touch. Then, the commonalities between his concept of geographic information processing and recent developments in geographic visualization (geovisualization) are outlined. Following from the latter, three geovisualization research challenges for the coming decade are highlighted: (1) developing a typology of operations for interactive georepresentations and a syntactics for their use; (2) balancing abstraction and realism in GeoVirtual environments; and (3) facilitating different place collaboration. keywords: geographic visualization, dynamic cartography, interactivity, animation, semiotics, cognition, virtual environments