Spatial Information Theory the understanding and use of spatial information across a wide variety of contexts. Spatial information theory forms the underpinnings to developments in geographic information systems, hypertext navigation and aspects of scientific visualization. Specific topics of the seminar will include formal approaches to spatial reasoning, empirical studies on human spatial cognition, and the use of spatial metaphors in virtual environments. The goal of the course is review current literature. Each student will be asked to prepare and present a research proposal on a specific topic related to spatial information theory.
I will ask all participants to purchase a copy of Springer's LNAI 2685: Spatial Cognition III: Routes and Navigation, Human Memory and Learning, Spatial Representation and Spatial Learning, edited by Freksa, Brauer, Habel and Wender. (See http://www.cosy.informatik.uni-bremen.de/spp/publications/book3.html for details), which will provide a single common understanding of the present state of the art. Additional on-line readings will also be required.