Hypothesis Testing Using Univariate and Bivariate Choropleth Maps

This research examines the methods by which subjects determine whether specific hypotheses are supported by choropleth maps. The study evaluates the ability of map readers to generate and apply valid methods to test hypotheses when using univariate and bivariate choropleth images. Although readers are much more adept at using univariate maps, the generalization involved in making a four-class choropleth map greatly inhibits the ability of subjects to provide compelling evidence both to support and to refute positive and negative relationships.