Fieldwork
Observe… Participate
Activity: Observe... Participate
Suitable for: all Key Stages
Equipment: notebook / diary
Timing: ongoing throughout fieldwork investigation
Instructions: This task uses the methodology of participant observation, encouraging students to develop their sense of place and to immerse themselves in the culture and environment of the place. Participant observation can be both intentional and incidental. Encourage your students to take part in activities in and around their local area - visit shops, eat in local cafes, use public transport etc in order to get a better sense of place. They should note down their observations in a fieldwork notebook.
Top tips: Encourage your students to think about the people they observe, thinking both about who they are and how they are using a particular place. Who is excluded from this place? What can their observations tell us about the nature of their local area?