GEOG301 (HAM)
Research in Geography, Tourism and Environmental Planning
20 points

Lecturers:Dr Colin McLeay and Dr Russell Kirkpatrick
Emails: c.mcleay@waikato.ac.nz and russellk@waikato.ac.nz

Paper description

This paper emphasises a range of research skills in human geography. It focuses on important methodologies currently practised in social and cultural geography. It is a core paper in geography and it examines major elements of the research experience including: project design, theoretical frameworks for research, data sources, methods, field work, analysis and reporting of results. Activities include formulating research questions, practicing ethical research, employing appropriate sources, methods and analyses, recognising the shortcomings of such approaches, analysing results and producing reports in oral and written form.

During the semester we will critically review a range of methodologies including: multi-method approaches; census interpretation; field notes; mapping techniques; interviewing skills (individual and group); reading landscapes; questionnaire analysis; participant observation; and reading texts (films, books, advertisements and television) about place. Students will carry out their own research project.

Paper objectives

To provide students with:

• a grounding in a range of methodologies used in human geography of the contemporary era;
• an ability to critically assess the weaknesses and strengths of a range of methods used in human geography;
• an understanding of the relationship between geographical theories and methods;
• practical experience of designing and completing a small research project;
• a range of skills and techniques which are transferable to other subject and employment areas, including the interpretation of subjective data; and,
• an ability to work in groups.

Prerequisites

SSRP202 or GEOG228 and 20 further points at 200 level in Geography.

Assessment

Paper work to final examination ratio: 70:30
Assessment will comprise the following:

1. Workshops                                    30%  
2. Group Work: Proposal                    10%
3. Presentation                                  10%
4. Poster                                           20%               
5. Exam                                           30%               

Recommended Text

Students are encouraged to purchase the highly recommended text:

Clifford, N.J. and G. Valentine (eds.), 2003: Key Methods in Geography, Sage, London.

This book is available for purchase at A Plus Textbooks (Knighton Road) or Bennetts University Book Store.

Timetable and Organisation:

Refer to the Online Timetable.