A Space-Place GIS Framework for Human Dynamics Research in a Hybrid Physical-Virtual World

By Dr. Shih-Lung Shaw, Chancellor’s Professor & Alvin and Sally Beaman Professor, Department of Geography, University of Tennessee.
Abstract:
The goal of this presentation is to critically examine the concepts of space and place in geography in general, and in geographic information science (GIScience) in particular, so that intelligent systems incorporating concepts of smart space and smart place can be developed to support human dynamics research.
* Human activities and interactions are increasingly taking place in a hybrid physical-virtual space enabled by modern technologies

*Despite their ubiquity, we argue that conventional geographic information systems (GIS) are conceptually constrained due to its confinement to the concepts of Newtonian absolute space and physical place

*GIS can be expanded to better include humans as dynamic and living entities using a space-place (splatial) framework, which integrates a range of conceptualizations regarding space (absolute space, relative space, relational space, and mental space) and place (location, locale, place identity, and sense of place)

This presentation also includes some examples to illustrate the broader theoretical and practical implications of this framework for GIScience and geographical research.