Field and Laboratory Techniques for Physical Geographers

Module code: GY1433

In this module you'll start to get to grips with the practicalities of being a physical geographer. Through a mixture of laboratory practicals, Leicester-based fieldwork and a residential fieldclass in Devon, you'll learn a range of techniques for observing, measuring and monitoring the physical environment. There will be a particular focus on reporting and communicating geographical data in a range of formats, including public presentations and formal scientific reports.

You'll work individually and in teams to explore these methods and other geographical concepts. Throughout the module you'll need to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your individual and team approaches, reflecting on your skills development and transferable skills portfolio.

Topics covered

• Sedimentology
• Water quality
• Surveying
• Estimates of biomass and soil carbon stocks
• Assessments of biodiversity and ecological surveying
• Appropriate presentation and statistical analysis of numerical data