Design, conduct and report on a group-based research project in Physical Geography or Environmental Science.
GEOG 301 is an 18-point capstone paper for the BSc in Geography and BAppSc in Environmental Management and provides students the opportunity to undertake guided learning of the research process. The course comprises of three main elements: individual study and research, group-based research, and a series of workshops designed to prepare you for these research experiences.
| Paper title | Field Research Studies |
|---|---|
| Paper code | GEOG301 |
| Subject | Geography |
| EFTS | 0.1500 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Full Year (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- GEOG 201 (or GEOG 290 prior to 2023)
- Restriction
- GEOG 380 (passed prior to 2023)
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Eligibility
- Enrolments for this paper require departmental permission. View more information about departmental permission.
- Contact
- Teaching staff
Paper Coordinator: Dr Ralf Ohlemuller
Plus all of the Physical Geography staff.- Paper Structure
The paper requires students to work on a research topic in small groups, with advice and support from a staff member. There is a short programme of lectures and workshops to help students achieve these objectives.
The paper combines both group and individual work elements. Each student will prepare and present, as an individual, a literature-based assignment (20% of grade); a final report (70%); and a critique of the research experience (5%). These tasks do not involve collaboration.
In addition, each group will collaborate to generate research questions; develop a research approach; undertake fieldwork/collect data; perform laboratory work and initial data analysis. Groups also must cooperate in the presentation of two seminars to the class. Contribution to the group process is considered via a (staff-moderated) peer assessment (5%).
- Textbooks
A textbook is not required for this paper.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Cultural understanding, Global perspective, Environmental literacy, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Research, Communication, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.- Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper will:
- Build knowledge about the role humanity can play in tackling environmental problems (cultural understanding, global perspective, environmental literacy);
- Develop the ability to critically analyse literature (critical thinking, information literacy);
- Design an appropriate research strategy (critical thinking, research);
- Gain experience in appropriate data acquisition and analysis techniques (information and environmental literacy, research);
- Build knowledge of collecting and analysis of the data (information and environmental literacy, research);
- Develop oral and written communication of research design and findings as an individual and team (communication, teamwork).
