Justifying long-haul field courses: the role of cultural learning

Figures & data

Table 1: Academic and cultural aims for the newly developed field course.

ACADEMIC AIMS	CULTURAL AIMS
To evaluate the effect of industrial development on environment and society, with particular focus on coastal ecosystems and communities.	To work in close collaboration with universities and other organisations at our destination(s).
To explore resource and waste management.	To exchange ideas with the people we meet.
To discuss the sustainability and externality of consumerism in a global context.	To explore the culture, traditions and history of our destination.

Figure 1: Steps in the development of a new field course leading to the selection of a location.

Figure 2: Key components in the fieldcourse planning.

Table 2: Timing of logistics in preparation of overseas field course (FC).

TIMING AHEAD OF FC	ACTIVITY
More Than 1 year ahead	Reconnaissance visit to assess feasibility of potential location.
12 months and ongoing	Design of academic content and research projects.
11 months	Selection of participating Plymouth University students.
10 months	Authorisation of budget by Head of School.
9 months	Book accommodation and air travel.
8 months	Selection of participating students at Chinese partner universities City U/SYSU. Preparation of study resources for students in collaboration with City U/SYSU, setting-up of electronic communication for research project planning, confirmation of topics and study locations for research projects, checking of local conditions, such as tides, access, permits etc.
7 months	Student and staff health checks, vaccinations, passports, visas, accessibility support, first aid training, University and private insurances.
7 months onwards	Student project planning via electronic communication and tutorials.
6 months	Arrange site visits that rely on the availability of guides, organisations, government officials or PR officers in industry, etc or have restricted access.
4 months	Book transport in GPRD (rail, ferry, coach, minibus, research boat) and in UK (airport transfers).
2 months	Finalise itinerary and field course handbook.
Final weeks	Final briefing of students; confirmation of all contacts and visits.

Figure 3: Key elements in the student’s role.