Field Methods

This full year, half-course involves a one-week, field work intensive excursion to an unfamiliar location away from the Western University campus. Field work—real world, on-site observations, data collection, problem solving, team work, technical skills development and application—is at the core of geographical research: it is an essential educational experience.

All field camps stress the importance of preparation prior to departure, the practice of geography in the field, and the completion of one or more assignments in the field and after returning to Western.

Course educational, social and skills objectives

• facilitate experiential learning
• experience 'real', hands-on field research skills
• encourage responsibility for independent learning
• develop analytical, interpretative, observation and critical skills
• practice technical skills in mapping, sampling and GIS
• way finding in unknown environments
• experience the initial process of creating new knowledge
• identify real world problems and practical problem solving
• practice organizational and time-management skills
• practice reading, writing, presenting and creative thinking
• develop a deeper respect for the complexities of the human/physical environment
• develop personal and group skills
• accomplish a unique set of challenges in an exceptional setting

Student testimonials

• "Best course in university"
• "I learned so much more than I would have in a classroom"
• "Our field work expeditions were the highlight of my academic experience"

Field Trip Offered in 2023-2024

• Geog 3000Y Field Methods and Practices, section 001 - Montreal

Information Meeting Spring 2023

• Thursday March 23, 2023, 1:30-2:30, SSC 1302; light refreshments will be served

Tentative Departure/Return Dates for 2023-2024

• Geog 3000Y, section 001, Montreal: Monday September 25th to Friday September 29th

Field Camp Sections for 2023

Please direct inquiries to Angelica Lucaci, the Undergraduate Program Advisor
Email: alucaci@uwo.ca