It is generally agreed that there is now more and more emphasis being placed on Field Studies and Learning Beyond the Classroom in the Irish Curriculum. Refined over the years, our courses mirror this new emphasis by offering the perfect opportunity for serious exploration, discovery, analysis and expression....the cornerstones of field study research.
A successful approach
The purpose of Fieldwork is to provide students with a variety of field techniques and also to contribute to their knowledge of the subject. We use case studies to reinforce learning. This encourages students to explore the natural environment and to channel their energy into learning by enquiring about the world around them. The whole approach is based on challenging students to develop and critique appropriate hypotheses, and to collect and display their qualitative and quantitative data in a logical, easy-to-follow manner. Exercises that promote decision-making are also part of the approach, and this is a key factor in attaining research success. Our support material and secondary data assists in the process.
An adaptable timetable
We pride ourselves on our flexible timetable. A typical visit might include an adventure activity upon arrival to allow students a chance to unwind and relax. After dinner, you may decide to schedule an evening lecture where the following day's study would be discussed, and methods and objectives agreed upon. Students get worksheets to take out into the field. Each day is spent in the field making measurements and collecting data, followed by a post-field session where they collate, analyse and summarise their findings.
The right equipment
The correct study equipment is essential for Fieldwork. We provide students with all they will require, including specialist sampling and measuring equipment, flow meters, digital anemometers, quadrats, ranging poles, and clinometers. We also make digital cameras available for Fieldwork photographs, and these will be available in the post-field studies.
Learning as a team
We promote teamwork at all times, whether out in the field, or in the post-field sessions. We see this as a key part of the personal and social benefits from visiting our centre. It allows allows teachers to gain a new understanding on the way in which students interact and work with each other.
Work, and some play
If you wish, you can combine your Fieldwork trip with some of our challenging adventure activities. Students can stretch their muscles as well as their minds, and adventure activities can also build team morale. We offer a wide range of adventure activities, including Surfing, Climbing, Kayaking, Ropes Course, Abseiling, Quad Biking, and many others.
New Syllabus (07) Leaving Certificate GEOGRAPHY (Ord & High) Fieldwork
Designed by Geography Professionals this new course is designed to meet the needs of both students and teachers in delivering a section of the new Geography syllabus. The Geographical Investigation is the key area of study in Core Unit 3 and is compulsory for all students". (Geography, Leaving Certificate, Guidelines for Teachers. NCCA 2004)
Both classroom instruction and actual fieldwork will be covered. All data required will be collected and analysed to facilitate the writing up of the Reporting Booklet. Your students will benefit if they have studied and reviewed the relevant sections in their Core Unit 1 on erosion and rivers prior to undertaking our fieldwork module.
Topic:
Geomorphic processes of erosion in a fluvial environment. To cover this topic fully our river study will include
Intro:
Setting of aims or hypotheses
Planning:
Selecting methods of gathering and identifying the information required
Gathering of information:
Drawing cross sections
Constructing Valley Profiles
Measuring Velocity
Calculating Discharge
Determining Load size and shape over distance
Field sketches
Results, Conclusions and Evaluations
Finally after all the hard work on the site locations, your students will return to the classroom to establish their results.
What will you have achieved?
You will have the full information to enable your students to write up their fieldwork in the Reporting Booklet. Importantly, guidance will be given towards the "writing up" giving due consideration to the marking scheme and the weighting of the marks to the different sections.
BIOLOGY Leaving Cert (Ord & High)
Through our Leaving Certificate programmes your students can:
Collect ecological data through sampling.
Develop analytical skills through graphical and statistical techniques.
Encounter real plants and animals in a variety of habitats.
Make links with other areas of biology.
Boost their understanding of ecologyand its everyday application.
All the Leaving Certificate ecological experiments required can be included in a field visit to one or more habitats over the course of a visit to our Eco-Study Centre.
Environmental Field Studies
We introduce the students to nature's complexity & diversity under five broad themes:
Coastal
River
Settlement Studies
Flora & Fauna
Ecosystem Management
Mountain Studies
We generally deliver these as full-day modules, but can also deliver half-day modules to cater for the needs of your group. Our systematic - yet enjoyable - approach combines theory sessions & field trips, & students are asked to complete worksheets that open their minds to the fascinating area of collecting data. Follow-up sessions take place in our ICT Laboratory an illustrate how new technology can assist us in our understanding of nature.
Talk to a counselor, send us your booking form or drop us an e-mail. We approach every booking personally and with care. Read more...
