Virtual fieldwork for sustainable enhanced student learning Simon Davis & David Barrett – ELDT, University of York Dr Katherine Selby –Environment Dept, University of York

Presentation  Rationale for virtual fieldwork  Coastal Geomorphology module –10 credit –Year 2 UG –~ 40 students –40% Literature Critique / 60% Exam  Evaluating impact  Lessons learned

Rationale for Virtual Fieldwork  H&S / Cost  Flexible learning / Accessibility  Student expectations / Staff stress  Wider variety of experiential understanding  Direct link to assessment  Focus on academic outcomes and helps to prepare for on site visits Fieldwork essential for study of Physical Geography VF used to prepare for or replace visits VF range from static text to immersive environments; provide a more “real” experience than textbooks

Coastal Geomorphology – VF structure  8 * structured learning units –Custom Flash maps –Hi-res images –Videos –Digital maps  Optional activities  Formative assessment

Coastal Geomorphology – VF to Spurn Point  Delivered in compulsory cluster session following lecture series  Link lecture content to real life contexts  Opportunities to revisit for deeper learning and revision  Supported preparation for on-site field trip  Direct link to GIS practical and exam Lectures Virtual Fieldwork On site visit GIS practical (formative) Exam (60%)

Evaluating impact  Student feedback – very well received and used  VF case studies cited in majority of high scoring exams

Evaluating impact – environmental benefits 2.8 tonnes of CO 2 e saved. Or travelling 8,500 miles in average car. Data from Stockholm Environment Institute York 2010

Sustainable Societies  Informal use of VF content –Expert interviews video –Student engagement with wider reading  Direct links to seminar discussions and formative quizzes  Preparation for on site visit

Evaluating impact – Sustainable Societies

Lessons learned  Video production  Production timescale  Structure  Integration of VF into course structure and assessment  VF provide reusable resources and case studies  Future development; portfolio of VF for access throughout degree  Other resources would support VF though development has resource impications

Questions