Undertaking research in the field can form an important part of many subjects and courses and can provide opportunities to develop a wide range of skills, both subject specific and generic. Fieldwork could be part of a taught module or as field based research as part of a project, this page brings together resources and information that may be of interest for students in their work. The resources available through this page may be freely available or may require registration or access via your institution.
The Apps page of the website brings together apps for use on a mobile phone or tablet which could be of use in the field. With a range of apps covering activities from data recording to species identification.
The chapter on Fieldwork in “Effective learning in the life sciences” explores group work, data collection, technology, safety and many other aspects of fieldwork: Peacock, J., Park, J. R. and Mauchline, A. L. (2011) Effective learning in the life sciences: Fieldwork. In: Adams, D. (ed.) Effective Learning in the Life Sciences. Wiley-Blackwell, Chichester, pp65-90.
Traveling abroad for fieldwork? Travel Guide: Helping you prepare for your travel abroad could be of interest. Developed as part of a “basic training course” for students travelling abroad it has pre-trip checklists, advice from students and emergency information that could be of use.
Fieldwork for Students – Videos of fieldwork techniques and fieldwork tips created by students for students.
The Royal Geographical Society has a number of pages with information and advice about fieldwork which, although aimed at A-level students, may have some useful techniques and ideas you could use in your own fieldwork. See Fieldwork Techniques and Sampling Techniques for a starting point.
The Field Studies Council has free resources for students and teachers – again, although aimed mainly at A-level students you may find some useful guides and information on fieldwork.
Some societies, groups and universities offer funding for students to undertake fieldwork projects in addition to those that are part of a course. You may also find funding for a summer vacation project that could enable you to undertake a more extensive piece of fieldwork research. See for example:
Results and writing up
Engage in Research has guidance on analysing data, literature searches and writing up reports.
Bioscience Horizons is a journal of undergraduate and taught masters research. Have a read of some of the papers to see how others have written up their research and to give you some ideas for research you might want to undertake.
Are there any resources you use and would recommend to others? Get in touch…