Geographical Fieldwork Investigation: Design, Statistical Analysis, and Critical Evaluation
Students will create simple maps of their classroom or school grounds, including key features and a basic legend.
Key Questions
- Design a rigorous geographical fieldwork investigation specifying a testable hypothesis, a justified sampling strategy — comparing random, systematic, and stratified approaches — and an appropriate mix of primary quantitative and qualitative data collection methods for a local physical or human geography issue in Ireland.
- Apply statistical analytical techniques — including Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, chi-squared test of association, and measures of central tendency and dispersion — to process and interpret primary fieldwork data, and represent findings using cartographic, graphical, and tabular presentation techniques appropriate to the data type.
- Critically evaluate the reliability, validity, and ethical dimensions of a completed fieldwork investigation, systematically identifying sources of measurement error and sampling bias, and propose specific methodological refinements that would strengthen the evidence base for the geographical conclusions drawn.
NCCA Curriculum Specifications
Suggested Methodologies
Ready to teach this topic?
Generate a complete, classroom-ready active learning mission in seconds.
Planning templates for Exploring Our World: Global Connections and Local Landscapes
More in Geographical Skills: Cartographic Analysis, Remote Sensing, and Fieldwork Investigation
Introduction to Maps and Globes
Students will understand the basic purpose of maps and globes and their differences.
3 methodologies
Map Elements: Title, Legend, Scale, North Arrow
Students will identify and understand the purpose of essential map elements.
3 methodologies
Ordnance Survey Map Symbols
Students will learn to recognize and interpret common symbols used on Ordnance Survey maps.
3 methodologies
Six-Figure Grid References, Bearings, and Coordinate Systems on OS Maps
Students will learn to use four-figure grid references to locate features on simple maps.
3 methodologies
Contour Interpretation, Cross-Section Construction, and Relief Analysis
Students will learn to identify hills and valleys on simple maps using shading or basic height indicators.
3 methodologies