1. Introduction to Multimedia Cartography

Learning Objectives

You will be able...

...to describe what multimedia is.
...to list the main developments of multimedia's history.
...to identify the characteristic features of a multimedia application.
...to explain what multimedia cartography is and describe its main concepts.

Introduction

Maps are a convenient instrument to thematically and topographically visualize the situation of a particular territory. Not long ago, maps were available only on non-electronic media, such as newspapers or journals. In today's computer era, however, maps are also available in digital form, such as on computers, mobile phones, etc.
Various new aspects have to be considered when conceptualizing and designing such digital maps (e.g., the combination of different media, the implementation of interactivity, etc.).

The objectives of this lesson are to demonstrate the effects and components of a multimedia map.

Move mouse over the circles to see some photos.

This lesson contains many examples coded in SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). Each standard-conform browser (e.g. Mozilla Firefox, Opera, ...) can show SVG code but for the Internet Explorer you have to install a SVG Viewer, e.g. the Adobe SVG Viewer. Some of the examples are complex and include additional interactions that might not be described in the text. Beside exploring the obligatory features of the examples, you are free to explore the whole applications in detail. But keep an eye on time.

Cartography for Swiss Higher Education

1. Introduction to Multimedia Cartography

Learning Objectives

Introduction