PrintSummary and Final Tasks
Summary
Congrats, you've made it to the end of the course! In this lesson, we discussed how the recent re-visioning of the map reader as a map user has changed the cartographic design process, as well as how we evaluate maps. We discussed many different elements that may be integrated with maps, such as graphs, charts, and explanatory text, and explored the different mediums (e.g., interactive dashboards, data journalism) in which these elements are combined.
At the end of the lesson, we discussed when not to map, encouraging a practical approach to data visualization that views maps as a valuable tool but not a panacea. Relatedly, we note that much of cartographic design theory is widely applicable, and can be applied when designing other data visualizations or writing graphic-adjacent text—from microcontent to full articles.
In Lab 9, we designed an interactive map-based story using the visual analytics platform Tableau. Though this lab focused heavily on concepts from Lessons 8 and 9, we also drew from concepts throughout the course—refining layouts, symbolizing data, and thinking critically about map audience and purpose. This Story is now available on the web for you to share with others as demonstration of your skills in map design and data visualization. You're now ready and able to create, analyze, critique, and share high-quality maps!
Reminder - Complete all of the Lesson 9 tasks!
You have reached the end of Lesson 9! Double-check the to-do list on the Lesson 9 Overview page to make sure you have completed all of the activities listed there. After that, you'll have finished the course!