Topic 4.3: Raster Modelling & Map-making and Visualization

Content

Topic Introduction

Raster modelling is a diverse field that allows for a variety of forestry related in depth analysis. It might be a good idea to review your notes on what a raster is and how it can be applied in analysis. We will be building off previous knowledge to look at more complex applications such as terrain surface parameters, curvatures, and much more.

Once you have all of your data nicely displayed in a GIS, you’ll want to export a map. Map-making is a field unto itself, but in this course we will briefly cover how to create an aesthetically pleasing and intuitive map. We will also talk about the field of visualization and what the future holds for visualizing GIS and other geospatial data.

Self Check (For certificate learning only)

Self-check Quiz 4.3.1 – Raster Modelling

Quiz Questions:

What are the two curvature types?
How does raster modelling measure aspect?
Briefly, what is the procedure to measure gradients?

Check Answers:

Instructions: Take the quiz by clicking Self-check Quiz 4.3.1 and compare your answer with the Model Answer after your attempt.

Self-check Quiz 4.3.2 – Map-making and Visualization

Quiz Questions:

What is a cartogram?
What are some examples of basic map elements?
What does visual balance refer to?

Check Answers:

Instructions: Take the quiz by clicking Self-check Quiz 4.3.2 and compare your answer with the Model Answer after your attempt.

Activities & Assignments (For certificate learning only)

Class Forum Topic 4.3

Follow detailed requirements in FODE009_Forum Post 4.3.docx Download FODE009_Forum Post 4.3.docx

to prepare your forum post for this week. For general participation and grading criteria, please see detailed description under Modules > Graded Assignments > Class Forum Discussions.

Assignment/Lab:

No assignment/lab for this week.

Topic Summary

Raster modelling is a powerful tool for evaluating terrain characteristics. Spatial interpolation of raster models allow users to predict values of a variable at every point, this means peaks can be smoothed and valleys can be filled. The applications of these kinds of analysis are very powerful. Suitability analysis using raster datasets are a simple, but powerful procedure that is often used in a forestry setting.

Map-making is a key skill. No matter how valuable your GIS information is, if you can’t display that information in a way that makes sense, it’s useless. Always remember basic map components and map composition in order to create a good map. In the future maps are likely to become more interactive and include more detail such as a variety of 3D elements.

Topic Self-review (For self learning)

Please use the reflection questions below as study guide to conduct self-review for the topic.

Self Review 4.3.1 – Raster Modelling

Explain how slope and aspect are computed in a raster model
How do tension and smoothing options affect interpolation?
Explain, with figures for examples, what the procedure is for a suitability analysis with raster datasets

Self-check Quiz 4.3.2 – Map-making and Visualization

What is the difference between a topographic and a thematic map?
What is an isopleth map?
How can visualization help forestry?

FODE009