What is fieldwork?
Fieldwork is first-hand geographical investigation carried out in a real place to answer a question or test an idea. It trains students to observe, collect and interpret data about the physical and human landscape, such as a river, a town centre or a stretch of coastline.
Key idea
Every fieldwork study follows a cycle: plan an aim and hypothesis, collect data, present and analyse it, then draw a conclusion.
Stages of a fieldwork study
- Planning: choose a title, set the aim and hypothesis, pick the study area and prepare methods.
- Data collection: gather primary data (your own field observations, counts, measurements, questionnaires) and secondary data (maps, books, statistics, websites).
- Recording and presenting: organise data into tables, graphs, maps, sketches and photographs.
- Analysis and conclusion: interpret patterns, compare with the hypothesis and state findings and recommendations.
Example
To study traffic near a school, students count vehicles at set times (primary data) and read a local road map (secondary data), then draw a bar graph of the results.
Methods and safety
Common methods include direct observation, counting, measuring, sketching, photography and questionnaires or interviews. Field equipment may include a clinometer, measuring tape, compass, thermometer and a notebook. Students must also work safely: go in groups, tell a teacher the route, wear suitable clothing and take care near water and roads.
Remember
- Primary data = collected by you in the field.
- Secondary data = from existing sources such as maps and books.
- A hypothesis is a statement you test with your findings.
- Always follow safety rules during fieldwork.