Defining annotations: a visual (re)interpretation

Abstract

A variety of research has focused on annotations and methods for incorporating ‘them’ into digital formats. Absent from most is a clear definition of what is meant by the term ‘annotation’ and the characteristics they embody. In the digital world it is often perceived as a synonym for metadata, but in the analog world it may refer to a reader's scribbled notes in the margins. These are both types of annotation, but at opposing ends of the scale; one formal the other informal. Marshall's (1998b) seven dimensions of annotation are (re)presented here in a new visual format (figure ) for comparison to an historical geographers information needs and note taking behavior. One of the geographer's objectives was to reconstruct a digital map of 18th century North Carolina settlement patterns. The findings point to an untapped avenue for improving access to our nations cultural heritage.