Class Notes |The Preparation / Pre-Field Stage

1.   Preparation stage.

This stage is extremely important because it lays the foundation for the entire fieldwork. The main activities carried out here are outline below

1. Pilot study /Reconnaissance

This is the pre-field visit conducted before the actual fieldwork. A pilot study must be undertaken so that the field the researcher can identify and record the existing features

and seek permission from the local authorities in the area of study.

A pilot study provides a sample raw material necessary for designing the topic and formulation of objectives of study.

A pilot study helps the researcher determine if the chosen area has sufficient geographical information and  to estimate the time needed to conduct the fieldwork.

2. Choosing a topic of study

The fieldwork study topic chosen should have the following features;

·      It should be geographical i.e. the topic should be derived from the physical geography i.e. relief, drainage, soils, vegetation, and human geography i.e. agriculture, settlement, mining, etc.

·         It should show WHAT was studied in form of a geographical relationship.

·      It should show WHERE the study took place in terms of village, sub-county, county, district, etc.

3.Formulation of objectives.

Objectives are short term targets that have to be achieved in a short period of time.

·      Fieldwork objectives should be; SMART i.e. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound.

·      NB. While stating objectives, we are supposed to use measurable phrases like to find out, to identify, to investigate, to assess, to examine, to suggest (only solutions to problems), to discover, and to establish.

·      Do not use phrases like to know, to understand/comprehend, to admire, to see, and to appreciate.

·      The objectives should be related to the topic of study but not a repetition of the topic rather, a breakdown of the topic of study.

4. Choosing methods to be used

The methods to be used during fieldwork should be related to the topic and objectives of the study. They include; Observation, Interviewing, Questionnaire, Measurement, Pacing, Sampling, Recording, Field sketching, Tabulation, Map orientation, and Analysis of existing information.

5. Selection of tools to be used

The tools selected should be in line with the methods chosen. Each method has got the necessary tools required for the proper implementation of the method. Tools used include survey maps for map orientation, foot rulers/measuring tape for measuring, cameras, pens, papers, and clipboards, etc. for recording, interview guide for interviewing, and Questionnaires for questionnaire method etc.

6. Literature review/library research

This is where the researcher gets information from existing records/ secondary sources and compares it with what is in the field at the time of the study.

7. Asking for permission from appropriate authorities

This involves writing letters seeking official permission to visit and undertake studies in the area chosen for example in the case of a ranch, permission must be sought from a ranch manager and other officials, and the school authority.

8. Forming study groups

When the number of students involved is large, then they have to be divided into groups to encourage management and group study of geographical phenomena in the field.

9. Briefing and organizing for transport.

This is done to ensure that learners try to gather relevant information in the field and ignore what is irrelevant. Transport means are also cleared if the study involves moving long distances.

10. Departure to the area of study

At the time of departure, the researcher should ensure that he/she has the topic of study, objectives of the study and the necessary tools to be used during fieldwork.