Maps and Virtual Spaces

There are many ways to display geospatial information using geographical platforms. At their core, all mapping spaces are the same, containing projections that translate into two or three-dimensional forms. Maps are helpful tools for assigning data to locations, and the way that data is represented through a map can change the meaning and be used to create an argument. This makes it important to keep in mind cultural and societal contexts when creating one. The textbook talks about the “qualitative experience of space”, which is individual perceptions of a space that give it a different significance for various people. The objective nature of a map can make it challenging to show the qualitative and subjective experiences and perspectives of a location. 

Three-dimensional and virtual models serve as a helpful tool when working with the humanities. They can be used to virtually reconstruct historical sites, monuments, or objects in an immersive way. There is conversation about the authenticity of virtual models and their accuracy in a cultural context. Different perspectives may change the way something is virtually modelled, which makes people question its validity. This chapter also talks about using image technologies to capture, preserve, and sometimes restore cultural and historical sites. By restoring things digitally, there is less controversy about damaging or changing original sites and artifacts and allows more people to express their theories and opinions.  

Personally, I think that virtual tourism and heritage are very important. As the textbook explained, photographing historical sites allows them to be restored and displayed in a non-invasive way. It also allows more people to view and interact with spaces they may otherwise not have access to. For example, a virtual museum tour makes it possible for people in another state or country to view the art or artifacts. These tools make aspects of the humanities accessible to a wider audience. In our upcoming curation unit, we will have to use them to research and display humanities projects.