ANALYSIS AND GEOVISUALIZATION OF BIODIVERSITY MONITORING DATA

Ella CHRISTIE

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The main aim of this diploma thesis is to analyse openly available biodiversity data and use geovisualization techniques to create a series of educational resources on local biodiversity and selected geo-aspects. National Parks are a stronghold for preserving natural habitats and the wildlife that reside in them. Environmental education is key in communicating the importance of conservation and raising awareness of local biodiversity and the threats they face. Biodiversity data can be highly complex and copious in quantity. Therefore, simplifying and appealingly condensing this data is essential to educating the general public on the importance of their local wildlife and landscapes. This thesis utilised geovisualization methods to provide an interactive educational web platform using Glenveagh National Park, Ireland, as a case study. The goal was to educate potential park visitors, with particular focus on school-aged children about local ecosystems and biodiversity using selected geo-aspects. A brief analysis of local species and the surrounding landscape was conducted to create an educational website using geovisualization techniques to create a series of interactive maps and learning resources. The results outline how geospatial methods such as web cartography and geovisualization are highly useful in environmental education. User evaluations will review how various geovisualization techniques and interactivity play a role in engagement and learning capabilities.

Abstract:

The main aim of this diploma thesis is to analyse openly available biodiversity data and use geovisualization techniques to create a series of educational resources on local biodiversity and selected geo-aspects. National Parks are a stronghold for preserving natural habitats and the wildlife that reside in them. Environmental education is key in communicating the importance of conservation and raising awareness of local biodiversity and the threats they face. Biodiversity data can be highly complex and copious in quantity. Therefore, simplifying and appealingly condensing this data is essential to educating the general public on the importance of their local wildlife and landscapes. This thesis utilised geovisualization methods to provide an interactive educational web platform using Glenveagh National Park, Ireland, as a case study. The goal was to educate potential park visitors, with particular focus on school-aged children about local ecosystems and biodiversity using selected geo-aspects. A brief analysis of local species and the surrounding landscape was conducted to create an educational website using geovisualization techniques to create a series of interactive maps and learning resources. The results outline how geospatial methods such as web cartography and geovisualization are highly useful in environmental education. User evaluations will review how various geovisualization techniques and interactivity play a role in engagement and learning capabilities.

Keywords

Educational portal, web platform, interactive, visualization, Glenveagh National Park, Biodiversity, Geovisualization, Analysis

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 16. 5. 2022

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: RNDr. Alena Vondráková, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Science

Master programme / field:
Geoinformatics and Cartography / Geoinformatics and Cartography