Human

• Title: How does environmental quality change with distance from the centre of Polesworth?
• Systematic sampling: Collecting data in an ordered & regular way.
• How systematic sampling was used:

  • Measuring 100 meters between each location
  • Having 17 specific sites
• Systematic sampling was used to remove bias, & cover a large area. However, certain useful areas could be missed, e.g. by not having a site by a park.
• Fieldwork location: Polesworth.

  • Familiar environment
  • Free & easily accessible
  • Good range of data
• Contribution to geographical understanding:

  • Methods of data collection - skills, sampling & analysing data
  • Learnt about land usage, urban environments
  • Relating taught geography to the real world
• Methods of primary data collection:

  • Pedestrian count
  • Environmental quality survey
  • Land use survey
  • Vehicle count
• Risks in fieldwork:

  • Traffic
  • Members of the public
  • Weather
• The risk of traffic was minimised by crossing as a group at pedestrian crossings & staying on the pavement.
• The risk of the public was minimised by working in groups with staff members.
• The risk of weather was minimised with appropriate clothing.
• Presentation of data:

  • Bar graph - shows trends & anomalies.
  • Radar graph - picks out individual aspects of the best & worst sites.
• Conclusions:

  • The environmental quality improved with distance from the centre of Polesworth.
  • This was found from sites 8 - 13.
• Inaccuracies in coursework:

  • Environmental quality is subjective & some aspects may change during the day e.g. pedestrian count.
  • Gave a general idea, but could be more specific & measured over a longer time & more sites.
• This fieldwork could be of use to the local council, residents of Polesworth & people planning on moving here.
• Data collected on: Building density, maintenance, graffiti, parking, traffic fumes, traffic noise, open space, greenery, public parks, litter, feel, & paving maintenance.