Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
of Bly (
1982
) who could even quantify an increase in effectiveness through
repetitions of similar experiments.
Further details of this study are described in Schiewe and Weninger (
2012
).
Further Studies
For both cases, visualizing data for one time stamp as well as time series, more
detailed user studies have to be performed in order to create an additional value out
of an acoustic coding in maps.
In particular,
detailed parameter settings
have to be investigated. For example,
with time series coding a meaningful number of points of time, tone differences and
total length of the acoustic series needs more attention. Of course, such an acoustic
coding has to be compared to the graphical counterpart (i.e. a diagram); however,
also specific scenarios (like missing graphical space) and tasks have to be consid-
ered. But not only the pure hearing capabilities of different users have to be
considered but also the interplay between visual and acoustic perception that
takes place while using a map.
Furthermore,
interaction design
aspects are of major importance. For example, a
mouse-over can ensure a quick release of a sound (and with that, reducing the time
span between multiple releases for comparison purposes). The disadvantage is that
sounds are played back unintentionally when an area is just passed during mouse
movements. Again, empirical investigations using different map layouts have to be
performed in order to gain better insight and better usability.
Also, different types of
sound legends
and different ways of positioning them
need to be investigated. As mentioned before, we observed a significant
learning
effect
throughout the study. It would be of interest how this learning curve develops
and which measures can be taken in order to support a quick customization.
Finally, in the context of
maps for blind and visually impaired people
also the
question arises how “hybrid maps” have to be designed that are useful for seeing
people at the same time in order to allow for an immediate exchange of information.
Conclusions
Our analytical review has revealed that the sound variable
pitch—
and with
strong limitations also the variable
loudness—
are suited for representing
quantitative data in maps for comparison purposes. For an absolute determi-
nation of values neither pitch nor loudness are really suited because here a
very well trained musical hearing is required. Instead of this, presenting a
certain number of sounds according to the value to be described is a possible,
but also not satisfying solution due to the limited maximum number of sounds
that is well recognizable. Summarizing this analytical review we could
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