Interdisciplinarity for evaluating cartographic representations of shoreline dynamics

All over the world, multiple processes make coastlines dynamic. With climate change accentuating some of these processes, coastal evolution is a subject of growing concern. This dynamic is generally reflected in cartographic representations that are used in scientific analyses but also for coastal zone management. Indeed, maps remain the most effective way of connecting the reality on the ground with users. However, while the appropriation of maps and, consequently, the understanding of environmental phenomena by a variety of audiences remains a major challenge, it is rarely evaluated. 

It is by developing an original interdisciplinary approach that brings together geosciences and environmental psychology, that will be presented the method used to evaluate cartographic representations of shoreline dynamics, and to understand of how they are observed, perceived, interpreted, and understood.

The experimental protocol is based on a combination of concepts and methods from these different disciplines. Using explicit methods such as questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, as well as implicit methods such as eye movement analysis, several standard maps representing coastal dynamics are presented to a large group of volunteers. This allows for the evaluation of the effectiveness, comprehensibility, and appreciation of each map. 

The aim of this research is to develop a methodology that can be applied to other case studies and to provide concrete solutions to the various stakeholders regarding risk management in their territory through effective communication. This approach will ultimately increase the resilience of the territories and populations involved by engaging them. It also demonstrates how combining social sciences and geosciences can enrich methodologies.