Assessment 3 Title Experiential Learning Report (25%) Assessment of Soil Quality in Sefton Park: A Fieldwork and Laboratory Analysis Study
Assessment 3 Title Experiential Learning Report (25%) Assessment of Soil Quality in Sefton Park: A Fieldwork and Laboratory Analysis Study
Project Overview:
The project involves assessing the soil quality in Sefton Park, combining fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and problem-based research. This study aims to determine the health and composition of the soil, its suitability for various plant species, and any environmental concerns.
Project Formats:
Fieldwork-Based Format:
Objective: Collect and analyze soil samples from different locations within Sefton Park.
Activities:
Design a sampling plan identifying multiple sites within the park.
Collect soil samples using standardized methods (e.g., soil augers).
Document the GPS coordinates, weather conditions, and vegetation type at each sampling site.
Conduct on-site tests for immediate soil properties (pH, moisture content).
Problem-Based Format:
Objective: Address a specific environmental problem related to soil health in Sefton Park.
Problem Statement: Investigate the impact of human activities on soil quality in Sefton Park and propose mitigation strategies.
Activities:
Conduct a literature review on soil degradation and contamination.
Formulate hypotheses on potential impacts of human activities (e.g., littering, foot traffic, pollution).
Collect soil samples from high-traffic and low-traffic areas for comparison.
Analyze data to identify significant differences and possible sources of contamination.
Research Assistant Related Format:
Objective: Support ongoing research projects related to soil health and environmental management.
Activities:
Assist in designing and implementing soil sampling protocols.
Collaborate with researchers to collect and prepare soil samples for lab analysis.
Contribute to data analysis, interpretation of results, and report writing.
Participate in regular research meetings and present findings.
Lab Work-Focused Format:
Objective: Perform comprehensive laboratory analysis on soil samples collected from Sefton Park.
Activities:
Prepare soil samples for various analyses (e.g., nutrient content, heavy metal concentration, organic matter).
Use laboratory equipment and techniques (e.g., spectrophotometry, chromatography) to analyze soil properties.
Record and interpret lab results, comparing them with environmental standards and guidelines.
Summarize findings in a detailed lab report, highlighting key insights and recommendations.
Project Execution Plan:
Preparation Phase:
Develop a detailed project proposal, including objectives, methodology, timeline, and resources needed.
Obtain necessary permissions from local authorities and park management for soil sampling.
Fieldwork Phase:
Conduct field visits to Sefton Park to collect soil samples according to the sampling plan.
Ensure proper handling, labeling, and transportation of samples to the laboratory.
Laboratory Phase:
Perform detailed laboratory analysis on collected soil samples.
Record data systematically and ensure quality control throughout the process.
Data Analysis and Reporting Phase:
Analyze and interpret the data, using statistical tools as necessary.
Compare results with environmental benchmarks and historical data.
Prepare a comprehensive report detailing methods, results, discussion, and recommendations.
Presentation and Dissemination Phase:
Present findings to stakeholders, including park management, local community, and academic supervisors.
Create educational materials (e.g., posters, brochures) to raise awareness about soil health in Sefton Park.
Evaluation Criteria:
Quality of Data Collection and Analysis: Accuracy and thoroughness in fieldwork and laboratory procedures.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and address environmental issues based on data.
Collaboration and Communication: Effectiveness in working with team members and presenting findings.
Impact and Relevance: Contribution of the project to understanding and improving soil health in Sefton Park.
By undertaking this project, you will gain valuable hands-on experience in environmental and geographical research, enhancing your skills in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and problem-solving.
Project Formats:
1. Fieldwork-Based Format
Objective: Collect and analyse soil samples from different areas within Sefton Park to evaluate soil health.
Activities:
Site Selection and Sampling Plan: Identify specific locations within Sefton Park for soil sampling, considering factors like land use, vegetation cover, and human activity.
Soil Sampling: Collect soil samples using standardized methods (e.g., soil augers, core samplers). Document GPS coordinates, weather conditions, and vegetation at each site.
Field Measurements: Conduct on-site tests for soil properties (e.g., pH, moisture content, temperature).
Data Recording: Maintain detailed field notes and data logs for each sampling site.
Expected Outcome:
A comprehensive dataset of soil properties across Sefton Park.
Identification of areas with varying soil health and potential issues.
2. Problem-Based Format
Objective: Address a specific environmental issue related to soil health in Sefton Park, proposing solutions based on research findings.
Problem Statement: Investigate the impact of human activities on soil quality and develop mitigation strategies.
Activities:
Literature Review: Study existing research on soil degradation and contamination due to human activities.
Hypothesis Formulation: Develop hypotheses on the potential impacts of human activities on soil quality.
Data Collection: Compare soil samples from high-traffic and low-traffic areas to identify contamination sources.
Data Analysis: Use statistical tools to analyze differences in soil quality indicators.
Expected Outcome:
Identification of key human activities affecting soil health.
Recommendations for mitigating negative impacts and improving soil management practices.
3. Research Assistant Related Format
Objective: Support ongoing research projects related to soil health and environmental management in Sefton Park.
Activities:
Protocol Design: Assist in designing soil sampling and analysis protocols.
Field Assistance: Collaborate with researchers to collect and prepare soil samples for lab analysis.
Laboratory Work: Participate in laboratory analysis (e.g., nutrient content, heavy metal concentration).
Data Management: Help in data recording, analysis, and interpretation.
Reporting: Contribute to writing research reports and presenting findings.
Expected Outcome:
Enhanced research skills and practical experience in soil health assessment.
Contribution to a larger body of research on Sefton Parks environmental status.
4. Work Placement/Work-Based Learning Format
Objective: Gain practical experience by working with an environmental organization or local government body involved in managing Sefton Park.
Activities:
Fieldwork Participation: Engage in fieldwork activities such as soil sampling and environmental monitoring.
Policy Development: Assist in developing or reviewing environmental policies and management plans based on soil health data.
Expected Outcome:
Practical experience in environmental management and policy-making.
Direct contribution to the sustainable management of Sefton Park.
Project Execution Plan
1. Preparation Phase:
Develop a detailed project proposal including objectives, methodology, timeline, and required resources.
Obtain permissions from relevant authorities and park management for field activities.
2. Fieldwork Phase:
Conduct site visits to collect soil samples as per the sampling plan.
Ensure proper handling, labeling, and transportation of samples to the laboratory.
3. Laboratory Phase:
Perform detailed laboratory analysis on soil samples (e.g., nutrient levels, contaminants).
Record and analyze data, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
In the lab I had to dry out my soil then once this was done I had
4. Data Analysis and Reporting Phase:
Use statistical tools to analyze data and identify trends.
Prepare a comprehensive report detailing methods, results, discussions, and recommendations.
5. Presentation and Dissemination Phase:
Present findings to stakeholders, including park management, local community, and academic supervisors.
Create educational materials to raise awareness about soil health and environmental management.
Evaluation Criteria:
Data Collection and Analysis Quality: Accuracy and thoroughness in fieldwork and laboratory procedures.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and address environmental issues based on data.
Collaboration and Communication: Effectiveness in working with team members and presenting findings.
Impact and Relevance: Contribution to understanding and improving soil health in Sefton Park.
By undertaking this project, participants will gain valuable hands-on experience, enhancing their skills in environmental and geographical research, and contributing to the sustainable management of Sefton Park.
Assessment 3 Title Experiential Learning Report (25%)
Task: An applied environmental/geographical experiential learning project that will be negotiated to be undertaken as one of several formats e.g. fieldwork based; problem-based; research assistant related; or, work placement/work-based learning related
I collected samples 10 each day the first ten samples I collected in Sefton Park where randomly chosen by the what3words app . I collected them once on the 26 april 2024 once on the 8 th may and on the 9 th may 2024 I used a to collect my samples from underneath the tree set locations .
Number 1 location was Muddy.pipe.arrow 0.79mi
Number 2 location was Saint.grass.jump 0.80 mi
Number 3 location was Impact.human .hotel 0.76mi
Number 4 location was blows.stuff.open 0.81 mi
Number 5 location Doll.rips.march 0.79mi
Number 6 location bubble.prone.strain 0.77 mi
Number 7 location noted . stay. Basis 0.75mi
Number 8 location small.bottom.supply 0.80 mi
Number 9 location tribune.whites.bugs 0.69 mi
Number 10 lived. Scholl.amused 0.74 mi
Project Title:
Assessment of Soil Quality in Sefton Park: A Fieldwork and Laboratory Analysis Study
Project Overview:
The project involves assessing the soil quality in Sefton Park, combining fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and problem-based research. This study aims to determine the health and composition of the soil, its suitability for various plant species, and any environmental concerns.
Project Formats:
1.Fieldwork-Based Format:
oObjective: Collect and analyze soil samples from different locations within Sefton Park.
oActivities:
Design a sampling plan identifying multiple sites within the park.
Collect soil samples using standardized methods (e.g., soil augers).
Document the GPS coordinates, weather conditions, and vegetation type at each sampling site.
Conduct on-site tests for immediate soil properties (pH, moisture content).
2.Problem-Based Format:
oObjective: Address a specific environmental problem related to soil health in Sefton Park.
oProblem Statement: Investigate the impact of human activities on soil quality in Sefton Park and propose mitigation strategies.
oActivities:
Conduct a literature review on soil degradation and contamination.
Formulate hypotheses on potential impacts of human activities (e.g., littering, foot traffic, pollution).
Collect soil samples from high-traffic and low-traffic areas for comparison.
Analyze data to identify significant differences and possible sources of contamination.
3.Research Assistant Related Format:
oObjective: Support ongoing research projects related to soil health and environmental management.
oActivities:
Assist in designing and implementing soil sampling protocols.
Collaborate with researchers to collect and prepare soil samples for lab analysis.
Contribute to data analysis, interpretation of results, and report writing.
Participate in regular research meetings and present findings.
4.Lab Work-Focused Format:
oObjective: Perform comprehensive laboratory analysis on soil samples collected from Sefton Park.
oActivities:
Prepare soil samples for various analyses (e.g., nutrient content, heavy metal concentration, organic matter).
Use laboratory equipment and techniques (e.g., spectrophotometry, chromatography) to analyze soil properties.
Record and interpret lab results, comparing them with environmental standards and guidelines.
Summarize findings in a detailed lab report, highlighting key insights and recommendations.
Project Execution Plan:
1.Preparation Phase:
oDevelop a detailed project proposal, including objectives, methodology, timeline, and resources needed.
ChatGPT
Experiential Learning Report (25%)
Project Title:
Assessment of Soil Quality in Sefton Park: A Fieldwork and Laboratory Analysis Study
Project Overview:
This project aims to assess the soil quality in Sefton Park by integrating fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and problem-based research. The goal is to determine the health and composition of the soil, its suitability for various plant species, and identify any environmental concerns.
Project Formats:
1. Fieldwork-Based Format
Objective: Collect and analyze soil samples from different locations within Sefton Park.
Activities:
Design Sampling Plan: Identify multiple sites within the park for soil sampling using the What3Words app.
Soil Sampling: Collect soil samples using standardized methods such as soil augers. Document the GPS coordinates, weather conditions, and vegetation type at each sampling site.
On-Site Tests: Conduct immediate soil property tests (e.g., pH, moisture content) during collection.
Data Recording: Maintain detailed records of sampling conditions and preliminary findings.
2. Problem-Based Format
Objective: Address a specific environmental problem related to soil health in Sefton Park.
Problem Statement: Investigate the impact of human activities on soil quality in Sefton Park and propose mitigation strategies.
Activities:
Literature Review: Conduct a review of existing research on soil degradation and contamination.
Hypothesis Formulation: Develop hypotheses on the potential impacts of human activities such as littering, foot traffic, and pollution on soil quality.
Sample Collection: Collect soil samples from both high-traffic and low-traffic areas to compare and contrast.
Data Analysis: Use statistical tools to analyze data and identify significant differences and possible sources of contamination.
3. Research Assistant Related Format
Objective: Support ongoing research projects related to soil health and environmental management.
Activities:
Protocol Design: Assist in designing and implementing soil sampling protocols.
Field Assistance: Collaborate with researchers to collect and prepare soil samples for laboratory analysis.
Data Analysis: Contribute to the analysis, interpretation, and reporting of results.
Presentation: Participate in research meetings and present findings.
4. Lab Work-Focused Format
Objective: Perform comprehensive laboratory analysis on soil samples collected from Sefton Park.
Activities:
Sample Preparation: Prepare soil samples for various analyses, including nutrient content, heavy metal concentration, and organic matter.
Lab Analysis: Use laboratory equipment and techniques such as spectrophotometry and chromatography to analyze soil properties.
Data Recording: Record and interpret lab results, comparing them with environmental standards and guidelines.
Reporting: Summarize findings in a detailed lab report, highlighting key insights and recommendations.
Project Execution Plan:
1. Preparation Phase:
Project Proposal: Develop a detailed project proposal, including objectives, methodology, timeline, and resources needed.
Permissions: Obtain necessary permissions from local authorities and park management for soil sampling.
2. Fieldwork Phase:
Sample Collection: Collect soil samples from predetermined locations using the What3Words app.
April 26, 2024: Collect 10 samples from locations identified by What3Words.
May 8, 2024: Collect another set of 10 samples.
May 9, 2024: Collect final 10 samples from underneath tree-set locations.
Sampling Locations:
Muddy.pipe.arrow (0.79 mi)
Saint.grass.jump (0.80 mi)
Impact.human.hotel (0.76 mi)
Blows.stuff.open (0.81 mi)
Doll.rips.march (0.79 mi)
Bubble.prone.strain (0.77 mi)
Noted.stay.basis (0.75 mi)
Small.bottom.supply (0.80 mi)
Tribune.whites.bugs (0.69 mi)
Lived.school.amused (0.74 mi)
3. Laboratory Phase:
Analysis: Perform detailed laboratory analysis on collected samples (e.g., nutrient levels, heavy metals).
Data Management: Ensure accurate recording and analysis of data.
4. Data Analysis and Reporting Phase:
Statistical Analysis: Use statistical tools to analyze data and identify trends.
Report Writing: Prepare a comprehensive report detailing methods, results, discussions, and recommendations.
5. Presentation and Dissemination Phase:
Stakeholder Presentation: Present findings to stakeholders, including park management and local community.
Educational Materials: Create posters and brochures to raise awareness about soil health in Sefton Park.
Evaluation Criteria:
Quality of Data Collection and Analysis: Accuracy and thoroughness in fieldwork and laboratory procedures.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and address environmental issues based on data.
Collaboration and Communication: Effectiveness in working with team members and presenting findings.
Impact and Relevance: Contribution to understanding and improving soil health in Sefton Park.
By undertaking this project, you will gain valuable hands-on experience in environmental and geographical research, enhancing your skills in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and problem-solving, while contributing to the sustainable management of Sefton Park.