Using different mapping techniques and GIS programs in the analysis and visualisation of mental maps

Abstract The paper presents the review of mapping techniques applied in research using mental maps. The review covers both evaluative and structural mapping. The choice of a method is influenced by the level of freedom given to the respondents while creating sketch maps. It is also highly affected by the area of a given region, scale used in the research and limitations of mapping techniques in GIS software. For large scale maps created in GIS software, it is possible to use quantitative methods, i.e. proportional symbol maps or quantitative signature symbols. Using multiple complementary mapping techniques allows to draw the most comprehensive conclusions in the analyses of perception of a given space in the society.