This study examines whether the use of pictorial signs as cartographic symbols are aids for map users in the comprehension of intended referent meaning. A history of the development and use of pictorial signs as cartographic symbols is traced from the origins of international highway signage to the Pictorial Sign/Symbol system of the National Park Service. The theoretical basis for examining qualitative symbolism in cartography is outlined as are the methodological evolution of the study and principles of symbol design. The NPS signs are tested in and out of a map environment to determine communication effectiveness. Results indicate that the NPS signs perform well as cartographic symbols for American college students and that map legends are used when provided. It is suggested that future testing of pictorial symbology might use semiotic and psychophysical research approaches to examine other coexisting symbol systems and discover more specific design principles for pictorial symbols. / Master of Science

The main aim of the present dissertation has been the proposition and the following verification of tourist routes of the Kožlany region, so that they would comply with the pedagogic/recreational needs of first grade pupils. The routes are also eligible for pupils of higher grades, without losing value or meaning. I have chosen the Kožlany region for the vast majority of the tourist routes because of its unusual and picturesque scenery with slight terrain elevation and unpredictable landscape changes, thus being a surprisingly refreshing and interesting region to travel through. Besides differentiated terrain Kožlany is a region with a large wood covered area of remarkable beauty and historical monuments which are rarely mentioned yet deliver an unforgettable experience of history and greatness. Among the most important edifices are the monasteries of Plasy and Marianská Tynice. Although other monuments have lesser historical importance than the mentioned monasteries, they do not fail to captivate with their uniqueness and splendor. Examples of such monuments and historical sites are the ruined fortresses of Krašov and Krakovec, the hunting chateau Angerbach, the Jewish cemetery in Kožlany and others. The town of Kožlany is a small, but on the other hand a very interesting place. Two important historical figures are linked with the town, concretely the Czech king Vaclav I. and the second President of the Czechoslovak Republic, Dr. Edward Beneš. Both personalities are mentioned in the dissertation in concordance with their relevance to the tourist routes. The routes have been conceived for hiking, some of them also for cycling tourism, taking in account the amazing nature around Kožlany. The dissertation further includes a theoretical part which concentrates on the content, forms and especially on the importance of tourism in education. It also deals with the representation of tourism related activities in the instructional basis for the first grade development programs for primary, general and national schools. Each of the designed routes is thoroughly characterized according to its length, difficulty, duration, initial point, target point and the attractiveness of spots which should not be missed on the way. A detailed description of each journey's course with maps and additional photographic materials is to be found in the dissertation. Legends or fairy-tales are included in the case of some routes to make them more pleasant and meaningful for the travelling children, eventually adults. Every route has a specific name to keep a clear overview of all the routes as well as to motivate the possible travellers. The dissertation provides a wide range of materials and facts that will help the teacher orientate in the concrete journey and pass new knowledge to his pupils. A variety of games that could be relevantly played in the course of the journey are offered as well.\\