Implementation of a Space-Place GIS for Human Dynamics Research with Google Maps Data

Keywords: human dynamics, space, place, GIScience, Google Maps
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract

Abstract

Shaw and Sui (2020, Annals of the American Association of Geographers, DOI: 10.1080/24694452.2019.1631145) present a space-place GIScience framework for human dynamics research that covers the concepts of location in absolute space, locale in relative space, identity in relational space, and sense of place in mental space. This paper further illustrates this space-place GIScience framework by presenting how to enhance our understanding of human dynamics through multiple views of interrelated concepts of location/absolute space, locale/relative space, identity/relational space, and sense of place/mental space. For example, Google Maps displays the locations of points of interest (POIs) in absolute space in a map form. In the meantime, other concepts of place and space (e.g., local context around each POI, relationships among different POIs, and perceptions of various POIs) also are embedded in Google Maps. This paper presents an example of using Google Maps data to implement a space-place GIS prototype system that can mange the four views of location/absolute space, locale/relative space, identity/relational space, and sense of place/mental space in an integrated environment. For example, when a particular POI is interactively selected in the location/absolute space view, information in the other three views will be automatically updated to help researchers gain insights of the POIs based on various perspectives of place and space. This space-place GIS offers additional capabilities in support of human dynamics research beyond those delivered by conventional GIS.