Coastal Fieldwork Flashcards
To revise coastal fieldwork (20 cards)
What was the overall aim of the Start Bay fieldwork?
To investigate the costs and benefits of contrasting methods of coastal management in Start Bay.
What were the three main hypotheses tested?
1) Most cost-effective management methods; 2) Highest risk of flooding and erosion; 3) Environmental and social impacts of sea defences.
Why was Start Bay chosen for fieldwork?
Due to safety, accessibility, and relevant geography (coastal defences, erosion, flooding).
What sampling method was used for beach profiles?
Systematic sampling.
How was qualitative data collected during fieldwork?
Through field sketches.
How were property sizes estimated?
By counting windows to determine if properties were small, medium, or large.
What tools were used to measure beach profiles?
Clinometer and tape measure.
How was the value of properties estimated?
Using Zoopla data (2021) for different house sizes.
How were bipolar survey results presented?
Using radar diagrams.
What graph was used to present beach profile data?
Line graphs showing cross-sectional area.
Why were radar diagrams useful?
They allowed multiple criteria to be compared visually across sites.
How were flood risks calculated?
By multiplying scores for flood likelihood and severity.
What does a large beach cross-sectional area indicate?
Greater protection from flooding and erosion.
What sediment type was found in the beach material?
Flint, from marine transgression.
What does a good fieldwork evaluation require?
Positives, negatives, and an overall judgement.
What are weaknesses of using estimations in fieldwork?
Inaccuracy due to estimation of heights and restricted access to buildings.
What questions should you ask about your sampling strategy?
Was it fair, appropriate, and did it allow comparison across locations?
What is a benefit of converting qualitative data to quantitative?
It allows opinions to be scored and compared more objectively (e.g., bipolar survey).
What are benefits of using both qualitative and quantitative data?
Quantitative data allows precise comparisons; qualitative adds reasoning and context.
What should a conclusion about the fieldwork include?
A reasoned judgement about whether coastal management was appropriate, based on all evidence.
