Mapping with micros: teaching introductory computer cartography

Abstract

Computer‐assisted cartography has been available for some years on mainframe computers, but programmes have been cumbersome and not readily accessible to undergraduate use. The advent of powerful, stand‐alone microcomputers has changed all this. Cartographic applications can be achieved without high demands in computing skills on the part of the user and, more important, in an interactive environment which allows the user to experiment in ways that are not otherwise possible. Micro‐based cartography offers important educational benefits, not least in developing skills in the decision‐making which underpins graphics communication.