A geography field report is a document that summarizes the observations, measurements, and data collected by a researcher during a field study in a specific location. Field reports are an important part of geography research as they provide a detailed, first-hand account of the physical and human features of a place. In this essay, we will provide an example of a geography field report and discuss some of the key elements that should be included in this type of document.
Our example field report is based on a study of the small town of Millfield, located in the rural county of Surrey in the United Kingdom. The town is located on the banks of the River Wey, which flows through the center of the town and is a major source of water for the local residents. The study was conducted over a period of two weeks in the summer of 2020.
The purpose of the study was to understand the physical and human features of Millfield and how they are interconnected. To do this, the researcher conducted a number of different methods of data collection, including:
Observations: The researcher made detailed observations of the physical features of the town, including the layout of the streets, the types of buildings and homes, the quality of the roads and sidewalks, and the presence of green spaces and parks.
Interviews: The researcher conducted interviews with a range of people living and working in Millfield, including local business owners, community leaders, and residents. These interviews provided insights into the social, economic, and cultural aspects of the town.
Measurements: The researcher took a range of measurements, including the temperature, humidity, and air quality at different times of day and in different parts of the town.
Analysis of existing data: The researcher also analyzed a range of existing data sources, including census data and government statistics, to gain a deeper understanding of the demographics, economy, and infrastructure of the town.
The field report begins with an introduction that provides an overview of the study area and the research objectives. It then presents the methods used to collect the data, including a description of the tools and techniques used and any limitations or challenges faced during the fieldwork.
The main body of the report presents the findings of the study, organized by theme or topic. For example, the report might include sections on the physical features of the town, the economic and social characteristics of the population, and the infrastructure and services available. Each section should include a summary of the key observations and data collected, along with any relevant charts, maps, or other visuals to help illustrate the findings.
The report concludes with a summary of the main findings and any recommendations for future research or action. It may also include a list of references and citations for any sources used in the
