Human-computer interaction: A prototype for data and spatial relations representation and interpretation in WebGIS

Models for data representation and presentation in WebGIS systems are based on concepts of borderlines, nets, territory, space and place, and the representation of abstract concepts are transmitted through graphic form, by means of images, photographs or cartographic representations of regions. The topological, projective, and Euclidean spatial relations connected with the process of world construction and conception promote experiences lived in space and that involve sensations, perception, and conception, which together with human emotional and rational characteristics, allow the elaboration of mental models. This paper presents a model and its prototype for interpretation, representation and presentation of geographical information based on sounds so as to allow information interpretation and analysis in WebGIS systems. In order to check the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed methodology, a computer prototype applied to Google Maps was developed, in which the proposed method was applied and tested with a group of blind people.