Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences from edX

This course focusses on your proficiency of field skills and contextual knowledge within earth and environmental sciences. Each section focuses on a specific skill set and represents a way of acknowledging achievements or skill acquisition at a granular level.

Key field skills included in this course are navigation, field observations and note-taking, and field sketching.

Field Observations and Note-taking

This section introduces how to set yourself up to be an effective observer and recorder using the platform of a field notebook. A field notebook serves many potential purposes. It is a valuable record of what you have seen, heard, discussed, and thought about in the field. It may contain the data which will lead to an oral presentation, a report, thesis, or even a scientific journal article. It may be a graded portion of a course. Or it may be something you and your relatives will find interesting decades in the future.

This section provides you with the knowledge, platforms, skills to guide you in taking quality and organised notes while in the field.

Navigation

The purpose of this section is to learn the fundamentals behind navigation and to develop core navigation skills. Today’s technology allows more confidence and safety in outdoor activities, but there are still some fundamental knowledge and skills you need to have to effectively use these.

What would be the key skills needed to be able to successfully navigate your way out of a situation? You may be in a situation where technology fails you or services are unavailable. This section focusses on specific tools and skill development in particular compass, GPS, base maps, and yourself. Being able to interpret and navigate a landscape gives a much deeper understanding of the lay of the land, how to identify your location, and how to move through it.

Field Sketching

This section introduces the basics of sketching, developing your skills and confidence so that you can create field sketches that support your scientific observations and data collection.

Data collection in the field is not just focussed on written notes, hard data, and measurements (quantitative data), it is also supported with sketches – drawings of nature, objects, flora, fauna, landscapes, architecture etc., which represent qualitative data. This section builds your ability to develop field sketches that provide a record of field observations & measurements, that give a summary of key features, that interprets photographs taken in the field, and provide useful memory aids.

This section develops skills and confidence in creating field sketches that are not masterpieces, works of art or textbook-perfect sketches. But simple drawings or summary diagrams that capture information.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Familiarize with and perform core navigation skills.
Develop techniques to make effective scientific observations in the field.
Distinguish between what is an 'observation' and an 'interpretation'.

Execute systematic notetaking of scientific field observations and data collection.
Build your ability to draft field sketches to match what you see in the field.
Develop and execute fundamental field skills and techniques in the earth and environmental sciences.

Familiarize with and perform core navigation skills.
Develop techniques to make effective scientific observations in the field.
Distinguish between what is an 'observation' and an 'interpretation'.
Execute systematic notetaking of scientific field observations and data collection.
Build your ability to draft field sketches to match what you see in the field.
Develop and execute fundamental field skills and techniques in the earth and environmental sciences.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops field skills and knowledge which are integral in Earth and Environmental science fields

Taught by highly regarded instructors in the field

Focuses on navigation skills, which are indispensable for field professionals

Guides in taking quality and organized notes while in the field, which is crucial for data collection and scientific documentation

Develops sketching abilities which aid in capturing field observations and measurements, providing a valuable supplement to written notes

Offers a mix of media including readings, discussions and videos, enhancing the learning experience

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences with these activities:

Review Earth Science Fundamentals

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Refresh your prior knowledge in earth science fundamentals to have a stronger foundation for the course materials.

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Review key concepts of earth science, such as plate tectonics, the rock cycle, and weather patterns.
Focus on understanding the basic principles and processes that shape our planet.
Consult textbooks, online resources, or videos to refresh your knowledge.

Review the basics of earth science

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Refresh your memory on the fundamental principles of earth sciences to prepare for the course content.

Browse courses on Earth Sciences

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Review your high school notes or textbooks on earth science.
Go online and browse reputable websites that provide summaries of basic earth science concepts.
Find videos or documentaries that explain fundamental earth science topics.

Organize Course Materials

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Stay organized by compiling and reviewing course materials to reinforce your understanding and enhance accessibility.

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Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials.
Organize materials by topic or module to facilitate easy retrieval.
Review materials regularly to strengthen your comprehension.

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Discuss Field Observation Techniques

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Engage in peer discussions to share and refine field observation techniques, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Browse courses on Data Collection Techniques

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Form study groups with classmates to discuss field observation methods.
Share experiences, tips, and challenges encountered during field observations.
Provide constructive feedback to peers to enhance their observation skills.

GPS Navigation Practice

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Sharpen your GPS navigation skills through practice drills to confidently use this technology in the field.

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Familiarize yourself with different GPS devices and their functionalities.
Simulate navigation scenarios using GPS tracking apps or software.
Practice using GPS to locate specific points, navigate routes, and record tracks.

Sketch Field Observations

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Enhance your field observation skills by creating sketches that capture your observations, improving your visual documentation abilities.

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Carry a sketchbook and pencils during field observations.
Practice sketching geological formations, plant and animal species, and other relevant features.
Label and date your sketches, adding notes for future reference.

Contribute to Field Observation Database

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Contribute to the advancement of earth and environmental sciences by sharing your field observation data with a recognized repository.

Browse courses on Data Sharing

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Identify a reputable field observation database or platform that aligns with your research interests.
Prepare your data in the required format and metadata standards.
Upload your data to the database, making it accessible to other researchers and the public.

Career center

Learners who complete Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Petroleum Geologist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide a foundation for Petroleum Geologists. Petroleum Geologists search for and develop oil and gas resources. They use a variety of field techniques to identify and assess potential drilling sites, including mapping, sampling, and drilling. This course can help Petroleum Geologists develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Geologist

Geographer

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide Geographers with a vital foundation. Geographers study the Earth's physical and human geography. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on the Earth's surface, including surveying, mapping, and remote sensing. This course can help Geographers develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer

Soil Scientist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide critical skills for Soil Scientists. Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on soil quality, including sampling, testing, and mapping. This course can help Soil Scientists develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Geotechnical Engineer

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide Geotechnical Engineers with a strong foundation in the field. Geotechnical Engineers design and build structures that interact with the Earth, such as foundations, dams, and tunnels. They use a variety of field techniques to investigate the properties of soil and rock, and to assess the stability of slopes. This course can help Geotechnical Engineers develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geotechnical Engineer

Mining Engineer

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide a foundational knowledge for Mining Engineers. Mining Engineers design and manage mines, which are used to extract minerals from the Earth. They use a variety of field techniques to assess the feasibility of mining projects, including drilling, sampling, and mapping. This course can help Mining Engineers develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mining Engineer

Geophysicist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide a strong foundation for Geophysicists. Geophysicists study the Earth's physical properties, including its gravity, magnetism, and seismic activity. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on the Earth's interior, including seismic surveys, gravity surveys, and magnetic surveys. This course can help Geophysicists develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

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Field Geologist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide Field Geologists with important foundational skills. Field Geologists study the Earth's surface and subsurface to understand its history, structure, and composition. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data, including mapping, sampling, and drilling. This course can help Field Geologists develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Field Geologist

Cartographer

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide Cartographers with a solid understanding of the field. Cartographers create maps and other visual representations of geographic data. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on the Earth's surface, including surveying, mapping, and remote sensing. This course can help Cartographers develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer

Environmental Consultant

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can be a valuable resource for Environmental Consultants. Environmental Consultants help businesses and organizations comply with environmental regulations. They conduct environmental assessments, develop environmental management plans, and provide expert testimony. This course can help Environmental Consultants develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

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Forester

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course may be useful for those aspiring to be Foresters. Foresters manage forests and other wooded areas. They use a variety of field techniques to assess the health of forests, including surveying, mapping, and sampling. This course can help Foresters develop the skills they need to conduct field investigations safely and effectively.

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Meteorologist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course may be useful for Meteorologists. Meteorologists study the Earth's atmosphere and its weather patterns. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on weather conditions, including weather balloons, radar, and satellites. This course can help Meteorologists develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Meteorologist

Environmental Scientist

With a concentration on the methodology and practice of field observation and data collection, this Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course may be useful for those looking to enter the field of Environmental Science. Environmental Scientists work to improve the quality of the environment by researching environmental problems. They develop and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as air pollution, water pollution, and climate change. Data collected in the field can help to monitor the health of the environment and track progress towards environmental goals.

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Demographer

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can provide Demographers with a useful foundation. Demographers study human populations, including their size, growth, and distribution. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on population demographics, including surveys, censuses, and vital statistics. This course can help Demographers develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

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Epidemiologist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course can be a helpful resource for Epidemiologists. Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on health outcomes, including surveys, interviews, and medical records. This course can help Epidemiologists develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Hydrologist

The Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences course may be useful for those seeking to become Hydrologists. Hydrologists study the movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. They use a variety of field techniques to collect data on water quality and quantity, including sampling, gauging, and monitoring. This course can help Hydrologists develop the skills they need to conduct field research safely and effectively.

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Foundational Field Skills for Earth and Environmental Sciences

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