隨著科技的進步，電腦的普及，使得地圖媒介由傳統紙本轉移到螢幕的過程得以快速發展。不過隨著地圖的訴求不同，展示方法也各有千秋。回顧國內現有針對數位地圖的研究，多著重在地理資訊系統的建置或地圖與讀者之間的互動性，針對地圖結合動畫的研究卻不多。造成此現象一方面是因為製圖人員對動畫製作程序的不瞭解，另一方面則是過去動畫地圖製作工序繁複費時，並須具備一定的專業。但現今動畫地圖，不論是專業需求、軟、硬體的要求或數據的取得都不再是難題，其限制已從製作端轉為讀者端的視覺與認知的處理能力。也因此本研究的主題鎖定於視覺的認知負荷上，藉由家喻戶曉的三國時代故事，製作符合地圖符號設計理論與多媒體學習認知理論的動畫地圖。再針對具地理素養的讀者進行問卷調查，整理歸納出其對動畫地圖的觀感，最後歸納出動畫地圖製作時所需考量的單一主題、注重過程、符號設計、使用者控制項、互動性與展示方法等六項原則以及「大勢不改、小節不計」的核心宗旨。
Although many studies have been conducted over the years, most are focused on traditional paper and mental maps. As technology advances, paper map media are quickly replaced by maps on computer screens. However, along with different demands, many display methods are used on maps. Review of existing literature indicates that more research emphasis is given to the interaction of maps and readers. Research on the combination of animation with maps is lacking. Therefore, this study tries to combine the principles of cartography and animation elements to construct animated maps. A questionnaire survey, along with cognitive map theories, is conducted to reflect the readers’ perception of the animated maps. Results should help to develop new design principles for animated maps.
