Field
work process
Field work for studying physical geography and
human geography are quite different. Field work in physical geography involves
direct observations, photography, field sketches, use of maps, satellite images
etc. Human geographic studies require sample surveys, preparation of
questionnaire, interviews and use of statistical techniques for data analysis
and representation.
Any field work involves three stages.
They are:
1.
Pre-field work
2.
Actual field work and
3.
Post field work
This involves proper planning, preparation and
arrangements. It is undertaken by the teacher/school management/and local
authorities. The tour details are to be informed to the CEO/DEO and field area
police stations well in advance, along with the name and house address, contact
details of the students and staff who undertake the field work.
Prior permission is to be obtained well in advance
to enter restricted areas or reserved forests.
Arrangement should be made for sufficient food and
safe drinking water. Students should be informed of the clothing requirements
(Woolen caps, sweaters, shoes, mosquito repellents etc.).
Field work site mapping should be carried out by a
small group of students with the assistance of their supervisor (teacher). The
problem or the aim of the study and its objectives are to be explained in
detail. The method of investigation and the equipments for survey in the field
are to be discussed with the students.
Prepare a field map and discuss the method of
conducting field work by different groups of the class. Each student may be
supplied with a copy of maps for reference. They should be informed of the
‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ during the field work. The following are some of the items
to be carried for field work in physical geography:
•
Stationery,
including scripling pads, colour pencils, wax pencils, papers, pens etc.,
•
Camera
with zoom and video facility.
•
Audio/video
recorders to record voices of birds, local people etc.,
•
Sufficient
number of binoculars to view distant objects.
•
Minor
field survey equipments like measuring tape, magnetic compass, clinometers,
GNSS hand set etc.,
•
Weather
instruments (for field work related to weather) like thermometer, rain gauge,
barometer, wind vane etc.
•
Maps,
topographic sheets (non-restricted), satellite images of the study area.
When the students reach the local study area, the
actual field work begins and information is collected through
•
Observe
the features and take notes. Students can record the information through
photography and video-audiography.
•
Prepare
field sketches by using colour pencils.
•
Instruments
can be used for measurement of distances, weather elements, heights, depths
etc.
•
Find
the direction using magnetic compass and orient the maps and images.
•
By
recollecting the map reading practices of topographic maps, satellite images
and aerial photographs for recognition and mapping the features.
•
Find
the important locations and routes by using GNSS and web based mapping
facilities.
•
Collect
unique and representative samples of rock, soil, surface water and groundwater
for further analysis, class room discussion and exhibition. Do not collect
plant, animal or microorganisms from the field, because this activity is banned
by the government.
•
Collecting
secondary data from local authorities, officers in -charge of the area etc.,
Though field work has many advantages, it also has
a few limitations such as:
•
It is
time consuming and expensive.
•
It
needs necessary equipments, maps, satellite images etc., for proper
interpretation.
•
Delay
in receiving permission from Government Agencies to visit restricted areas make
the trip uncertain.
•
There
are certain risks in travelling, changing weather, field illness etc., during
field work.
The data collected from the field has to be
arranged, photographs and sketches added wherever necessary, calculations
carried out, results inferred, maps drawn and report of the same prepared.
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