Coasts Feildwork

Question 1

What was the fieldwork enquiry question in Brighton?

Answer 1

How does hard engineering impact coastal processes and communities in Brighton?

This question guided the research focus on the effects of coastal engineering on the local environment and society.

Question 2

What method did you use to measure longshore drift at Brighton Beach?

Answer 2

Measured sediment height on both sides of 10 groynes using a meter rule and a 30m tape measure.

This method allowed for quantitative analysis of sediment movement along the beach.

Question 3

Why was systematic sampling used instead of random sampling in the Brighton study?

Answer 3

To clearly show the distribution of sediment along the entire groyne.

Systematic sampling ensures a structured approach to data collection, revealing patterns effectively.

Question 4

How was accuracy ensured during data collection in Brighton?

Answer 4

Avoided human error (e.g. taut tape, reading correctly), removed anomalies like -93.2 cm.

Attention to detail in measurement techniques was crucial for reliable data.

Question 5

What qualitative evidence suggested recent beach replenishment?

Answer 5

Flat sections of beach and tyre tracks, backed by photographs and council confirmation.

Qualitative observations complemented quantitative data, providing a fuller picture of beach conditions.

Question 6

What secondary sources were used in the Brighton fieldwork?

Answer 6

Met Office weather data and a Brighton City Council statement on beach replenishment.

These sources provided context and validated the primary data collected during fieldwork.

Question 7

One limitation of the Brighton fieldwork?

Answer 7

Only collected data on one day — more reliable results would come from regular visits.

This limitation affects the generalizability of the findings.