Master geographic thinking to define your story, deepen your understanding and drive real-world impact.
This workshop will delve into the theory of cartography, explore the art of storytelling with maps and provide a comprehensive overview of best practices in map design and information graphics.
About This Workshop
Maps are powerful tools for communication and advocacy. This workshop is designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge to create impactful maps. The award-winning storytellers in our National Geographic Explorer community will guide you to tell your best story.
Learn from the Leader in Geography, Blend Art and Science
Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to storytelling with maps, this workshop will enhance your ability to convey critical information and inspire action through effective geospatial narratives.
In this workshop, you’ll learn:
- Map Evaluation: Develop a critical eye for map design, understanding what makes a map successful and how to identify areas for improvement.
- Cartographic Theory & Principles: Grasp the fundamental concepts behind map creation, including communication models, the geographic approach, the ethics of mapping and the elements of practical cartography.
- Storytelling with Maps: Explore various approaches to narrative in cartography, understanding the nuances of authorship, trustworthiness, and responsibility in presenting spatial information.
- Data Awareness: Learn to differentiate between various data types and understand their impact on map design, including considerations for uncertainty and error.
- Map Planning & Design: Master the process of conceiving and planning a map, from defining its message and audience to selecting appropriate media, scale, projection, and style.
Learn the Explorer Mindset From the Experts
Maps allow us to tell profound stories, they’re artistic tools that connect people to the world.
Maps are the language of geography, but at their core, they navigate us from where we are to where we need to be.
This workshop is offered in a 1-Day or 3-Day experience.
In our 1-Day Foundational Workshop, your team will learn to convey critical information and inspire action through effective geospatial narratives. Participants will develop and present a strategic map plan and sketch.
Dive deeper with a 3-Day Comprehensive Mastery Workshop, where your team will learn to develop and present a comprehensive plan for a map. This will involve crafting a detailed 1-page description of your map's goals, audience and content, alongside a storyboard in sketch form to visualize your design concepts.