GEOGRAFIENS METODELÆRE—belyst ud fra undervisning i kortanalyse

Abstract

Biilmann, Ove, 1979: Geografisk metodelære—belyst ud fra undervisning i kortanalyse. Geografisk Tidsskrift 78: 41–49. København, June 1, 1979.

From a didactic viewpoint geographical methodology is described and evaluated. Analysing of maps is stated to contain both general and specific geographical aspects; hermeneutics, empirical science, representations, and teaching in methodology are touched upon.

SUMMARY

Geographical methodology and its role in instruction at advanced levels are discussed and some principles for selecting relevant subjects are touched upon. Based upon the one source, the topographical map, and upon the basic procedure, the analysing of maps, it is demonstrated how geographers apply methods and sources.

The analysing of maps and the possibilities and problems involved are discussed, among others how the resulting analysis is greatly determined by the kind and quality of knowledge which the analyser possesses of the investigated landscapes and social communities.

Geographical methodology is based upon two interrelated procedures—the empirical and the hermeneutical. The latter is described more detailed and it is attempted to show its importance for geographical methodology. Furthermore, the role of regional geography within research and education is pointed at.

The discussion of methodology also touches upon the influence of different ontologies and paradigms. It is stated that geographic science partly encompasses some general aspects which it shares with other disciplines and partly some special aspects which gives it its own identity. The methodology, the empirical and hermeneutical methods represents the general features, whereas the analysing of maps is an example of a characteristic geographical tool. Similarly, it seems worthwhile to continue along this path and analyse the bases of geography, its theories and concepts.