Overview
This lecture explains how geographic data is collected by individuals and organizations, defines key data types, and introduces major geospatial technologies for AP Human Geography Unit 1.
Entities Collecting Geographic Data
- Individuals, such as researchers or community advocates, collect data for specific purposes (e.g., studying disease spread or traffic patterns).
- Organizations (businesses, governments) collect large-scale geographic data, such as through maps or national censuses.
- Government censuses collect demographic, social, and economic information to inform policy and representation.
Methods of Data Collection
- Field observations involve physically visiting a location and making written, photographic, or interview-based records.
- Travel narratives are written accounts of travel experiences containing geographic and cultural observations (e.g., Ibn Battuta's journeys).
- Media reports often provide geographic data via stories about people and places.
Types of Geographic Data
- Quantitative data consists of numbers and counts, such as population size or number of houses.
- Qualitative data describes characteristics and qualities, such as resident satisfaction or personal experiences.
Geospatial Technologies
- Global Positioning System (GPS) determines absolute location using a network of satellites and devices like smartphones.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is software that analyzes, manipulates, and visualizes geographic data for research and decision-making.
- Remote sensing gathers geographic information through satellite imagery or aerial photography to visualize patterns like population or development.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Field Observation — Directly visiting and recording data about a geographic location.
- Travel Narrative — A detailed written account of a person's travels, often providing geographic insights.
- Quantitative Data — Numeric information that counts or measures features.
- Qualitative Data — Descriptive information about the qualities or opinions of a place.
- Geospatial Technology — Tools (hardware/software) for examining and measuring Earth's features.
- GPS (Global Positioning System) — Satellite-based system determining exact locations.
- GIS (Geographic Information System) — Software for analyzing, managing, and visualizing geographic data.
- Remote Sensing — Collecting geographic data from a distance, using satellites or aerial photos.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Unit 1 materials and note guides for AP Human Geography.
- Understand the differences between GPS, GIS, and remote sensing for future assessments.