Topographic Map Reading
Abstract
Work completed includes a field study and protocol analysis of experienced map readers solving a localization problem. The analysis focused on identifying both the features the map readers attended to and the information processes involved in solving the problem. The information processes identified were reconnaissance, map orientation, feature matching, relation or configuration matching, and hypothesis generation and evaluation. The laboratory simulation studies were conducted on the basis of the field study. They both involved matching a photographic scene to a station point and direction of view on a topographic map. Results of these studies tended to confirm the description of the features and processes from the field study. Two supplementary studies were carried out. One used an alternative laboratory map reading task and provided converging evidence for the effects of manipulation of the amount of information available in the map. The other study was carried out to determine the precision with which map readers could judge physical distance and slope from photographic scenes and maps. This ability would constrain the possibility of using metric information in map reading. Preliminary specification for a computational architecture for the problem solving aspects of the drop-off site problem was completed. The model includes both knowledge bases for features and hypothesized solutions as well as a control structure for guiding problem solving activity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 12, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA238026
Entities
People
- Herbert L. Pick Jr.
- William B. Thompson
Organizations
- University of Minnesota