Skip to main content

NEXUS

Human geography and maps 101


How people and places shape each other, and how to read and question a map.

Human geography and maps 101

How people and places shape each other, and how to read and question a map.

Level

Foundations

Who it is for

Everyone from about age 14: young people, adults, parents and newcomers. No prior knowledge is needed.

Format

Self-paced online, in plain language, with maps, figures, short quizzes and a discussion.

About 6 hours. Hours are an estimate.

What you will be able to do

  • Read a map's scale, projection, legend and source.
  • Explain why boundaries and names on maps can be contested.
  • Use a population or hazard map to answer a question.

Modules

  1. Reading a map. Scale, projection, legend and source.
  2. Names and boundaries. UN names, local names and disputed lines.
  3. People in place. Population, cities and movement on the map.
  4. Making your own map. Open data, open tools and honest choices.

Assessment

A short check after each module, with feedback. Completion is recorded; it is not an accredited award.

Status

Draft outline for scholarly review. The lessons, readings and questions are in preparation. Completion is recorded; nothing is accredited.

This course is shared by IDCDC and KCO. Course codes: IDCDC-SSC-03 (IDCDC) and KCO-SSC-03 (KCO).

Enroll