Investigating representations of places with unclear spatial extent in sketch maps

Anacta,VJ; Humayun, MI, Schwering,A; Krukar, J

Abstract

This study analyzes different ways of representing vaguely defined places from a set of sketch maps specifically when used in giving route instruc-tions. A total of 30 participants who are familiar with the study area were asked to sketch a route map consisting of pre-identified set of places. The task involved two groups: intra-city route and inter-city route. Sketch maps were analyzed using a previously developed classification scheme to investigate how places with un-clear spatial extent are represented. These were then classified into different cate-gory of places: district, site and neighborhood. Results showed that labels and regular shapes are the most preferred, as opposed to other types of sketch repre-sentations, regardless of the category of place. It also occurred that a specific place can be classified under one or more categories, which influences the type of sketch representation used.