Completing the eight point closed traverse gives the impression that

the measurements would be accurate simply because the origin is also

the endpoint.  Knowing fully well that human error exists, one can see
the gradual offset of points when comparing the Pace with the
Pace_corrected, as well as the Tape with the Tape_corrected.  As can
be seen in the Closure data above, the Total Length of the
Pace_corrected measurement was 424.2 feet, while the Total Length of
the Tape_corrected measurement was 450.2 feet.  Overall this resulted
in a Relative Error Ratio of 1:13 for the Pace and 1:21 for the Tape.
This means that the error associated with the Tape measurement method
was lower then with the Pace measurement method. This was the expected
result and comfirms that, if possible, you should use a tape to
measure a distance, rather then your feet!

Results/Discussion:
Completing the eight point closed traverse gives the impression that
the measurements would be accurate simply because the origin is also
the endpoint.  Knowing fully well that human error exists, one can see
the gradual offset of points when comparing the Pace with the
Pace_corrected, as well as the Tape with the Tape_corrected.  As can
be seen in the Closure data above, the Total Length of the
Pace_corrected measurement was 424.2 feet, while the Total Length of
the Tape_corrected measurement was 450.2 feet.  Overall this resulted
in a Relative Error Ratio of 1:13 for the Pace and 1:21 for the Tape.
This means that the error associated with the Tape measurement method
was lower then with the Pace measurement method. This was the expected
result and comfirms that, if possible, you should use a tape to
measure a distance, rather then your feet!

Conclusions:
This lab was successful in that we became familiar with the procedures
and techniques necessary for surveying a closed compass-traverse and
reconstructing the data into map form.  It emphasized the value of
knowing various techniques to measure a desired area and the
difference in accuracy between methods.  It also allowed a chance to
see human error in a realistic setting.

References:
Notes from powerpoints, handouts, and discussions during Spatial Data
Methodology
classes on 3/16/10 and 3/23/10 with Professor John Ebert