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Diploma and Master Theses (authored and supervised):

F. Heidecker:
"Comparing animated and static maps: Evaluating the influence of complexity";
Supervisor: G. Gartner, M. Peterson; Institut für Geoinformation und Kartographie, 2004; final examination: 2004.



English abstract:
The computer has been used to help the cartographer in making paper maps. As computers became faster and less expensive, they were used directly for the display of maps. This medium presents the potential for cartographic interaction and animation (Peterson 1995a).
Animated maps have a great advantage over static maps. They have the possibilities to show change; and there are many changes in the world that could be represented cartographically. People are used to an ever-changing environment. Most of the world´s population gets their information, education and entertainment from moving pictures (Halas 1967).
Dransch (1995, 1997) engaged in research on the theoretical basis of computer-animation in cartography, DiBiase (1991, 1992) defined variables for animation and Peterson (1993) described the potential of animation for choropleth maps. But, the value of cartographic animation has not been an issue for research in cartography.
Campbell and Egbert (1990, p.41) note that "Widespread experimentation with regard to information retention, visualization ability, statistical techniques, and choice of thematic methods is needed to ascertain the best ways of displaying animated maps". Animation has been shown useful at a certain level of complexity, but the point where it becomes more useful than a static map has not been defined yet. It is attempted to define that point by testing the perception of two types of depictions at various levels of complexity.

Created from the Publication Database of the Vienna University of Technology.