Before our fieldcourse we were given a list of aims and intended learning outcomes of the study.

AIMS:

• To develop an understanding of geographical concepts, ideas and approaches in human geography particularly in urban, social and economic geography.
• To encourage independent study and thought about geographical and real-world issues
• To introduce a range of research skills in geography
• To develop an enquiring, critical and organised approach to specialist research
• To develop report writing, communication, teamwork, fieldwork and interpersonal skills.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Display an understanding of theories and ideas in geography that help us to explain the urban environment and be able to apply these concepts to other countries.
• Show a critical awareness of the significance of place, space and time in geography.
• Demonstrate an awareness of the distinctiveness of New York as a city and of the ways in which its distinctiveness is constituted.
• Design and undertake a piece of original research based on fieldwork undertaken in New York
• Critically interpret data, synthesise information, develop and articulate arguments through a report
• Demonstrate a range of skills including critical thinking, problem-posing, problem-solving, analysis, independent learning, report writing, team work and communication skills.

ASSESSMENT:

• ESSAY: Before we left for New York we wrote a 1,000 word individual essay covering the academic context of our project. (Worth 20%)
• PRESENTATION: Over the weekend whilst in New York, we were required (in pairs) to prepare a poster and presentation that outlined the academic context of our project, our reserch questions, methods and research undertaken.( Worth 20%)
• PROJECTS: When we returned home we completed (in pairs) a 3000 word project on Networked Landscapes. This was the major part of the fieldcourse and was worth 60% of the total mark.