Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to a variety of specialist field and computer-based techniques of particular relevance to Human Geography. It builds upon core concepts and techniques introduced in the Level 4 practical programme whilst providing a portfolio of skills applicable to Level 6 independent study projects. Training and first-hand experience is provided in practical classes, which are supplemented by a series of exercises and assessments which encourage students to think and have a strategy about how to solve the issues presented to them. A particular effort is made to emphasise the relevance of the techniques covered to appropriate careers pathways.
Aims
This module aims to provide a variety of essential field and practical skills relevant to human geographers. It builds upon concepts and techniques introduced in the Level 4 practical programme and provides a portfolio of skills applicable to Level 6 independent research projects (dissertation modules GEG-30006 and GEG-30008). Training and first-hand experience in relevant techniques is provided in practical classes and extended group projects and presentations are used to highlight and evaluate the research applications of these techniques, and their effectiveness.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/geg-20010/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
use a range of specialist geographical techniques (field and computer-based) to collect, analyse, present and interpret a range of primary and secondary data related to Human Geography: 1work effectively as part of a team to complete group exercises within a specified time period: 1,2evaluate the quality of geographical data and determine the most effective techniques for the analysis and presentation of these data: 2identify and discuss the methods of data collection and analysis and evaluation of the associated research findings: 1,2apply these techniques in a problem-solving context and report the key findings in a written format: 1,2
30 hours laboratory / on-campus work (10 x 3 hour practicals)1x3 hour group poster presentation1x3 hour group poster drop in session6 hours structured engagement with on-line resources33 hours collaborative activity on-line to discuss questionnaires and prepare posters.75 hours independent / group preparation work and completion (essay and poster)
Description of Module Assessment
1: Coursework weighted 50%Individual submission of questionnaire and data analysisSubmission of an individual report which includes i) questionnaire for exploring selected project topic (max of 10 mins to complete; 4-5 sides of A4 max; focused on generating qualitative responses in particular) and ii) a set of instructions to undertake the questionnaire (1/2 page maximum - total submission of c.1000 words).
2: Poster Presentation weighted 50%Group poster evaluating research methodsSubmission of a group project poster (A2) reflecting upon the advantages / disadvantages of questionnaires, interviews and ethnographic approaches for undertaking research on the selected research topic (indicative length: 2000 words maximum).