Students on the BSc Geography programme at St Mary’s University, Twickenham have undertaken a number of fieldwork research projects in and around London as part of two newly introduced course modules.
This academic year, St Mary’s School of Management and Social Sciences has introduced two new optional modules to the second year of its Geography undergraduate programme, Ecology and Conservation and Urban Geography.
As part of the modules, students have been able to undertake fieldwork research around the capital, offering the opportunity to develop key skills and prepare them for their final year research projects.
Students who are studying Ecology and Conservation visited nearby Richmond Park to investigate the management of rare grassland environments, research that will be shared with The Royal Parks management team. St Mary’s Geography Lecturer and module convenor Dr Iain Cross said, “The trip was both enjoyable and productive. It is another great opportunity for St Mary’s Geographers to undertake original research whilst developing career-relevant skills in ecological surveying and analysis. Now we are looking forward to sharing our findings with The Royal Park to help inform their management strategies.”
Meanwhile, Urban Geography students spent a day exploring the contemporary nature of urban life and processes of Urban Change in East London. Fellow Geography Lecturer and module convenor Dr Jenna Truder said, “East London is a fantastic place to examine key debates within contemporary urban geography, allowing our students to research patterns of urbanisation and understand the challenges faced by urban inhabitants.”
During the visit students investigated gentrification, urban regeneration and the changing nature of retail and consumption, including a visit to Brick Lane. Dr Truder added, “The research skills that students develop on fieldwork such as this are essential for both their third year of study and their future careers.”
For more information about St Mary’s BSc Geography course, please contact Dr Iain Cross on iain.cross@stmarys.ac.uk. You can also follow the Geography team on Twitter @GeographyatSMUC
Students who are studying Ecology and Conservation visited nearby Richmond Park to investigate the management of rare grassland environments, research that will be shared with The Royal Parks management team. St Mary’s Geography Lecturer and module convenor Dr Iain Cross said, “The trip was both enjoyable and productive. It is another great opportunity for St Mary’s Geographers to undertake original research whilst developing career-relevant skills in ecological surveying and analysis. Now we are looking forward to sharing our findings with The Royal Park to help inform their management strategies.”
Meanwhile, Urban Geography students spent a day exploring the contemporary nature of urban life and processes of Urban Change in East London. Fellow Geography Lecturer and module convenor Dr Jenna Truder said, “East London is a fantastic place to examine key debates within contemporary urban geography, allowing our students to research patterns of urbanisation and understand the challenges faced by urban inhabitants.”
During the visit students investigated gentrification, urban regeneration and the changing nature of retail and consumption, including a visit to Brick Lane. Dr Truder added, “The research skills that students develop on fieldwork such as this are essential for both their third year of study and their future careers.”
For more information about St Mary’s BSc Geography course, please contact Dr Iain Cross on iain.cross@stmarys.ac.uk. You can also follow the Geography team on Twitter @GeographyatSMUCMedia enquiries
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