FIELDWORK GEOGRAPHY

FLASHCARDS

What is a hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a clear, directional and measurable statement that can be tested.

True or False?

An aim explains what a geographical enquiry is attempting to achieve.

True.

The aim explains what the enquiry is attempting to achieve. For example, an investigation into changes in beach profiles along Mappleton Beach.

True or False?

There does not need to be a link between a geographical investigation and established theories, models or concepts.

False.

The fieldwork does not have to be based on the theory or model, but the theories and concepts must be identifiable.

True or False?

All fieldwork starts with aims and hypotheses.

True.

All fieldwork starts with clear aims and hypotheses.

Why is fieldwork undertaken?

Fieldwork is undertaken to look into real-life issues and compare the theory against them. It helps geographers solve problems affecting society and the environment.

Define the term quantitative data.

Quantitative data is information in numerical form. It includes anything that can be given a numerical value.

True or False?

Traffic counts are an example of qualitative data.

False.

Traffic counts are examples of quantitative data because they result in numerical data.

Define the term closed question.

A closed question is where answers are limited to single words, numbers or a list of options.

True or False?

Environmental quality surveys are objective.

False.

Environmental quality surveys are subjective. This means they are based on the opinions of the people completing them.

True or False?

Quantitative data is more reliable than qualitative data.

True.

Quantitative data is more reliable than qualitative data.

Are interviews or questionnaires the most suitable for collecting large data samples?

Questionnaires are most suitable for collecting a large sample of data. Interviews are more in-depth and take longer than questionnaires.

Define the term primary data.

Data collected by the student within their fieldwork is primary data.

True or False?

Census data is an example of primary data.

False.

Census data is an example of secondary data because it is information that the student has not collected.

Name two disadvantages of secondary data.

There are several disadvantages to secondary data, including:

It is not specific to the enquiry.

There is no control over data quality.

The data may be biased.

The data may be out of date.

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is when the hazards of a fieldwork enquiry are identified and precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk are outlined.

Name two risks associated with a river enquiry.

There are several risks associated with river enquiries, including: