TO TOP

Topics for theses

Here, you will find suggestions for topics in cartography for your Bachelor's or Master's thesis. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact the listed contact persons. You are also welcome to reach out to us with your own topic suggestions!

Heatmap
Cognitive effects of map design

Maps are the means of choice for conveying spatial information. However, the specific design of a map can influence how we perceive, interpret and use spatial data. Possible research topics and questions include, for example:

  • How does map design influence spatial perception, orientation or navigation?
  • Identifying distortions in mental models of space (cognitive maps) and investigating map design-based causes and solutions.
  • How can we control visual attention in maps?

Contact persons

  • Prof. Dr. Frank Dickmann
  • Dr. Julian Keil
  • Annika Korte
Vr Model Ehrenfeldguertel
Conveying spatial data using VR and AR

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer exciting new possibilities for cartographic visualization. Spaces, such as urban planning scenarios, can be experienced virtually from an immersive, egocentric perspective, or real spaces can be enriched with additional virtual information. These technological advancements present numerous opportunities and challenges for cartography and its geographical applications, including:

  • How can VR and AR support the development of mental spatial models (cognitive maps), orientation, wayfinding, and navigation?
  • How does spatial perception in VR differ from that of real-world environments?
  • Teaching geographical content using VR and AR.
  • Developing workflows and automation processes for the visualization of cartographic data and imagery in VR and AR.

Contact persons

  • Prof. Dr. Frank Dickmann
  • PD. Dr. Dennis Edler
  • Dr. Julian Keil
  • Marco Weißmann
  • Katrin Reichert
Prometheus Raspi Bot
Capturing and visualizing spatial data

Technological innovations such as smartphones, single-board computers (e.g., Raspberry Pi), and mini-drones have made it easier than ever to collect spatial data. However, to derive meaningful insights from this data, it must be effectively visualized and interpreted. Example tasks and questions for this topic area:

  • Developing innovative visualizations to communicate spatial patterns and conditions.
  • Creating workflows and applications for the collection, aggregation, and evaluation of spatial data using mini-drones, the RubBOT sensor (PROMETHEUS), or other hardware solutions.
  • Investigating geographical issues using self-collected data.

Contact persons

  • Prof. Dr. Frank Dickmann
  • PD. Dr. Dennis Edler
  • Dr. Julian Keil
  • Marco Weißmann