Urban Field Studies

This module involves student participation in a fieldtrip to an urban location in Ireland and/or overseas.

1. Learers will have a fundamental knowledge of the principles of conducting geographical fieldwork within an urban setting.

2. Learners will see urban landscapes through the eyes of a geographer/historian/archaeologist.

3. Students will comprehend the enduring influence of topography and environment on the course of city development over space and time.

4. Students will demonstrate an understanding of how planning laws, theories and regulations shape urban environments.

5. Learners will be able to articulate the importance of conserving and preserving urban heritage (and balance such factors against the demands of the construction industry).

6. The learners will be able to demonstrate an ability to identify zones of archaeological sensitivity in cities.

7. Learners will be able to use interview and/or questionnaire techniques within an urban setting, along with observational methods.

8. Learners will comprehend the functioning of open spaces, streets, laneways, buildings, cultural institutions, monuments, quays, ports, markets, art galleries, museums, shops, shopping centres, etc. within an urban setting.

9. Students will be able to acquire an in-depth knowledge of the social geography of inner city and/or suburban communities, understand the complexities of social segregation and demonstrate an appreciation of some sociological factors that impinge upon human behaviour.

10. Students will be able to demonstrate a general awareness of theoretical matters relating to social segregation and the importance of wider comparative perspectives in acquiring such knowledge.