Course Description
Methods in measurement, observation, recording and synthesis of field data in physical geography. Students conduct field research and present oral and written reports (with maps) of findings.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Additional assignments, readings, and test questions.
Athena Title
Fld Mthds Env Mon and Assmt
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Learning objectives for this course include: An appreciation of the diversity of research methods in physical geography and applicability across subdisciplines; An appreciation of the importance of quality control and quality assurance in data collected for policy and decision making; A greater cognizance of the importance of science in the everyday functioning of our society, and its crucial role in informing conservation policy and decision making. This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below: Communicate effectively through writing. This is met by a series of writing assignments associated with supplemental reading and data analysis. Communicate effectively through speech. This is met by oral presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation. Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty electronic interaction, and data analysis activities and assignments. Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and are developed through homework assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry- based learning efforts.
Topical Outline
Class Introduction / Research Design and Sampling Strategies Landowners, Reconnaissance, and Use of Maps and Aerial Imagery Stream Assessments: Morphology, Sedimentology, Quality Hydrology: Stream Gaging and Flood Frequency Analysis Soil Description and Sampling Data Management, Test Review; Test 1 on Thurs. Sept. 26 Vegetation Description & Sampling Elements of Proposals; GPS-based mapping Surveying: Leveling and Cross-Sectional Surveys Surveying: Topographic Surveying and Mapping Lab Methods: Particle Size Analysis of Soil Lab Methods: Wet Chemical Analysis of Soil and Plant Material Lab Methods: Water Quality