Representing the deep semantics of complex geo-social concepts

This project will explore methods for the representation of geographic concepts that have a complex social meaning (for example, the notions of home, or national territory). Current approaches to the representation of geographic semantics provide precise, formal, mathematical descriptions of semantics that are not suited to social concepts.  Also, current approaches to geographic semantics assume that a common view is held by an information community.

The project will explore the use of a restricted natural language to allow people to describe what complex geo-social concepts mean to them, and will then develop methods for the use of this information to enhance understanding of the concepts concerned and to examine patterns in time, space and context.

Some background in social science or qualitative research approaches would be useful for this project.

Project supervisor: Dr Kristin Stock.