Emotion is an integral part of the knowledge production process, yet is rarely acknowledged within research methods teaching or textbooks. As educators, preparing students for fieldwork is essential, and should go beyond skill-learning, towards building confidence in their ability to react both ethically and appropriately during fieldwork. This…

This article describes a field course in Cornwall looking at mineral processing with the focus on the chemistry involved. The course was split into two parts. The first looked at tin mining based around Penzance. This involved visiting mines, hunting for mineral samples, carrying out a stream survey and visiting the Camborne School of Mines…

This article addresses the development of a conceptual model of fieldwork practice and the creation of an associated set of skills for the geosciences. The set of eight generic and seventeen specific skills is applied in two international field courses to demonstrate the utility of such a skills-centered model across a broad range of venues,…

Human geography fieldwork is important. Research has shown that when students "see it for themselves" their enjoyment and understanding is enhanced. In addition it helps develop subject-specific and transferable skills, promotes 'active learning' and links theory to "real world" examples in a "spiral of learning".…

There has been a rising acceptance of autoethnography in the past 15 years. Instead of studying social phenomena, in an appropriately reflexive way, some scholars have taken to researching themselves. Drawing on concrete examples from an ongoing ethnographic project, the paper contrasts the beneficial, even essential, practices of autobiographical…

Describes layouts for converting a high-top van into a multipurpose laboratory and transport for a college biological sciences department. (CS)

Described is a project designed to determine the kinds and types of science laboratories located in and around Yolo County, California. Summarized are some of the sites visited by the investigator and some of the impressions of those facilities. (CW)

Describes a fieldwork project in archaeology for teachers. Discusses one teacher's involvement in the Nevada program including field techniques and the development of a classroom lesson. Gives an address for obtaining information about the program. (CW)

Described are three programs ranging from short to long-term immersion in backcountry environments. Stresses that wilderness studies direct participants toward reconnecting culture with nature through advocacy and cultivation of the ecological self. (Author/CW)

Describes a natural science course designed to teach students that nature is nearby rather than somewhere else. Students learn about local flora and fauna, track the weather, and closely monitor the progression of the seasons. The course uses no textbook, regularly uses the outdoors as a classroom, and follows the seasons' phenology as the…

Compares and contrasts a historical approach to woodland studies with a conventional ecological approach. Suggests potential sources of information and areas for investigation for the historical ecologist. Also reviews a case study example that employed this strategy. (ML)

Examines value of higher education field studies. Describes agricultural field programs in California and Sri Lanka, examining relationship of classroom work to field work. Details students' reflections. Emphasizes experiential learning as valuable for both student and teacher. Concludes field work fosters realistic, meaningful interpretations of…

Describes the curriculum of the Lake Washington School District Environmental and Adventure School which included outdoor education on the school grounds and field and overnight trips. The curriculum theme was interdependent relationships, people and environments. Also included study of local natural history and Native American tribes. (PVD)

Described are the results of surveys concerning children's use of outdoor areas. Discusses design criteria for outdoor education areas for children. Provides suggestions for enhancing children's exposure to wildlife. Considers playgrounds, trails, backyards and neighborhood areas. (CW)

Israeli researcher at an environmental field school created a different kind of research report, turning an evaluation report into a textbook of didactics and adapting it for use in personnel training and inservice education without impairing its essential nature as an evaluation study. (SM)