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Abstract
This research examined if the sound variable of pitch is a suitable representative for elevation data on a map. The experiment utilized a method in which pitch was used in conjunction with virtual displays of topographic maps. Subjects were evaluated according to how they performed simple map reading tasks where one group was allowed to hear sounds and the other was not. Results indicate that sound enhancement improves map readers' accuracy and speed. The pitches also eliminated an increase in response time due to more visually complex maps. The experiment detailed in this thesis produced dramatic evidence that utilizing this multi-sensory symbolization scheme increases accuracy and decreases response time to topographic map reading questions.