Walking in Maps

Maps are not just for navigation, weather, or borders: they are an important tool for landscape inquiry. In this course we will read, interpret, and navigate with contemporary and historical ecological maps. Through ‘map walks’, hands-on exercises, and field-based map making activities; we will consider the role of maps in constructing field-based knowledge. We will learn to translate between maps and terrain. Our task will be to analyze maps’ accuracy, limits, and embedded perspectives. Throughout the semester, we will deepen our ability to think spatially and learn approaches for representing our landscape observations. Class assignments will include a physical and digital portfolio of maps analysis and re-imagining. Be prepared to spend significant time outdoors, with possible overnight field trips. [two 50-min lec. + 3 extended labs]