Data Gathering & Technologies (College Board AP® Human Geography)

Data Gathering

• Landscape Analysis is the process of studying and describing the landscape of a place to assess the impact of humans on the environment 

• Geographers use field observation to conduct landscape analysis

• Field observation involves:

  •  Physically traveling to a place

  • Recording details and observations about the place

• Spatial data records information about the physical location of objects in a place 

• The built environment refers to the physical artifacts created by humans that form part of the landscape

  • Built environments are unique across cultures and reflect unique characteristics

• The cultural landscape includes structures and changes within the physical landscape that reflect human activity

  • The cultural landscape communicates information about the culture, economy, language, religion, etc. about human society in a place

Geospatial Technologies

• Geographers use multiple technologies to collect, analyze and graph spatial data

• These geographic technologies include:

  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

  • remote sensing

  • Satellite Navigation Systems

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) display spatial data in layered maps

Image: GIS

• Remote sensing gathers photographic data from a distance, usually using satellite or aerial photographs

• Satellite Navigation Systems provide precise locations using triangulation

  • Global Positioning System (GPS) maps are an example of a satellite navigation system