Designing Simple and Complex Animated Maps for Users from Different Age Groups, Employing the Appropriate Selection of Static and Dynamic Visual and Sound Variables

Abstract

The appropriate selection of static and dynamic visual and sound variables (and related methods of cartographic presentation) is one of the vital factors for proper understanding of geographic processes, especially when dealing with animations that are intended to be read by users of differing age groups. In the research reported here, the author analysed and synthesised the available information related to user age, generation and education level that might have affected the visual and aural perception of variables. This was used as the basis to propose guidelines concerning the use of static and dynamic visual and sound variables, as well as methods of cartographic presentation for eight age groups. The utility of these guidelines was then tested on groups of representatives, enabling the rules to be further refined. Based on these modified guidelines, tables of rules were proposed for the use of variables and methods for each age group, which were integrated into the author’s entities–cartotrophic method of designing simple animations and entities–polystaymic method of designing complex animations.