Preparing for fieldwork
Preparing for fieldwork
This section will guide students through the development of fieldwork inquiry questions and considerations that need to be made when planning fieldwork such as ethical practice, the methodologies that are used to collect data and the practicalities of the day.
Time allocation - approx. 90 minutes
Learning intentions
We are learning to:
formulate questions for geographical inquiry
select and use appropriate equipment for fieldwork investigations
prepare for outdoor fieldwork experiences.
Success criteria
I can:
ask appropriate questions to plan for fieldwork investigations
identify equipment that is used during fieldwork
identify ethical practices for fieldwork
identify suitable clothing to wear in the field
identify what I need to take into the field to keep me safe and comfortable.
Fieldwork inquiry
Formulating questions
We are conducting a fieldwork investigation into the natural processes, cycles and circulations that have led to the formation of eucalypt forests at the Field of Mars Reserve.
To commence this fieldwork inquiry we need to formulate questions that guide our investigations.
View the Field of Mars Reserve video for a second time.
As a class:
develop a set of geographic inquiry questions to guide a fieldwork investigation into earth's natural systems.
brainstorm different ways geographers can collect primary data. Consider fieldwork tools and methodologies.
Acquiring geographical information
Fieldwork provides opportunities for students to collect both quantitative and/or qualitative data and information. During fieldwork at the Field of Mars Reserve students will:
collect qualitative data through field journalling methods, taking photos and writing notes.
collect quantitative data of the abiotic and biotic factors within the forest by conducting a systematic sample along a transect.
Activity 1
Access information about fieldwork techniques on the Field of Mars EEC website Fieldwork techniques
Explain the terms abiotic and biotic factors and provide examples of each.
Select TWO abiotic and TWO biotic factors and describe the methodologies used to collect data in the field.
Conduct internet research on the different sampling techniques used by geographers. Explain why a systematic survey along a transect within the forest is appropriate for a study of earth's natural systems.
During fieldwork students will use the equipment listed. Learn more about the fieldwork equipment to become familiar with its use.
Ethical considerations
Students need to consider the ethical responsibilities for field research. This includes:
respecting policies and regulations of sites or institutions
respecting research participants
minimising environmental impacts
taking appropriate actions to protect the health and safety of you and others
respecting intellectual property
accurate representation of data collected.
As a class, discuss how you will engage with conduct ethical fieldwork practices at the Field of Mars Reserve.
Personal preparation for fieldwork
Activity 2
View the Preparing for your secondary excursion video.
As a class discuss:
what you will wear
the most appropriate devices to bring with you for recording photos and GIS data
healthy food options
water bottles
personal medications
additional equipment.
Weather and safety
To maximise the safety and wellbeing of a research group check the local weather forecast before commencing fieldwork.
Wear suitable clothing including wet weather and UV protection.
Carry a minimum of 2 water bottles on hot days.
Examine source 3. The Willy Weather interactive widget and other real-time weather information sources are useful tools when planning fieldwork.