Julieta's GIS Blog

For this last module, we explored methods in Dasymetric Mapping. Dasymetric Mapping is "the process of disaggregating spatial data into finer units of analysis using ancillary data to help refine locations of population of another phenomena." This type of analysis basically helps look at where populations of a certain demographic(s) are concentrated within a set of boundaries. It may sounds like a fairly straight forward process, but it turned out more complex than expected... The first two parts of the lab were great exercises and stepping stones, per se, in introducing us to the process and mind set of actually perform a dasymetric analysis. First I performed an Areal Weighting analysis that required to produce a population estimate for areas within a Basin. This was followed by another Areal Weighting exercise this time with ancillary data which produced a population estimate for children within certain school districts. I will admit that the last part got the be

This week's lab focuses on becoming familiar with the Modifiable Area Unit Problem (MAUP) and its two effects: scale and zonation. Mainly, I learned more about how people try to manage Gerrymandering. Gerrymandering is one of the best examples of the Zonation effect in the MAUP. This involves the splitting of Counties, usually unevenly, as means to exclude certain demographics to gain favor for a political party. A possible way to measure the effect it has on political districts would be to calculate how many Counties a District breaks up. Ideally, we want to lessen the amount of Counties broken up in this process. Depending on the County population, a standard measure can be established in order to even out Districts.