Development of a spatial information system for use in sociological field surveys in Thailand and elementary training in map literacy

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Field surveys are often conducted in the social sciences and are important as elementary training for students. Basic geographical materials are prerequisite for such field surveys, but access to such basic materials are still limited in many regions. Although, we can browse satellite imageries and road maps in detail through the Internet, these materials can not be browsed offline. This project focused on the offline availability of basic materials with academic information, and a spatial information tool has been developed to support three major steps of a field survey: preparation, on-site implementation, and filing. The major materials used in this project are on the northeast of Thailand.Major activities and results are as follows.1. Experiments on the EcoNETVIS site navigation: I loaned the system to several researchers in Northeast Thailand for field experiments. I visited them afterward to listen to their impressions and discuss possible improvements of the system. A preparatory field survey was also conducted for future practical research on frontier villages in this region.2. Improvement of the EcoNETVIS site navigation: According to the requests from experimental users, many partial improvements have been implemented. The specifications of the system were revised to expand possible coverage from Thailand to neighboring countries. This system was found effective in incorporating legacy topographic maps of Laos and Vietnam.3. Public access: Academic information used in this project has been open to the Thai public through the EcoNETVIS Web page for many years. Recently, to provide easier access for Thai citizens, a private company in Thailand managing its own portal site with geospatial contents offered me an exclusive platform. At present, a trial Web page is ready, and we have been collaborating for public release.