Field work study is carried out by an individual or as a group. There are three main stages involved in field work study. These are:-

1.         Preparation stage

2.         Carrying out the actual field study

3.         Follow-up stage

Preparation stage

The success of a field work study highly depends on the thoroughness with which one plans the preliminary activities. These activities must be practical steps taken not just pre-conceived ideas. These include:-

1.   Pilot study must be taken.

A pilot study is to visit the area of study before hand or before the real field work. A pilot study helps one to know the area of study very well so that the right requirements can be taken. The size of the area and the time it may take is well-known.

2.   Statement of the topic of study. 

The topic stated must be clear and specific, emphasizing the theme / what was studied and location / where the Field work study took place.

3.   Formulating the objectives.

The objectives of the field work study should be related to the topic of study. Such objectives should be clearly stated, specific, feasible, measurable and achievable within the prescribed time.

A standard way of stating will start with the words like; to find out, to suggest, to identify, to establish, to discover. Words like to understand, to know and to appreciate cannot be used because they  are measurable. For example:

• To find out the historical background of the area of study
• To find out the factors that favoured its location
• To find out the economic activities carried out in the area of study etc.

5.   Development of methods to be used. This largely depends on the topic.

6.   Collection of instruments / tools

7.   Dividing the participants into groups. The activities in this stage should be chronologically arranged.

Carrying out the actual field work study

After all the preparations are done, the actual field work study can be carried out on the decided date.

During this period, data should be collected and recorded.

It involves the application of methods to collect data in the field. For example observation, interview, questionnaire, recording / sketching etc.

Follow-up stage

Back from the field, there is need to review what was discovered in the field. The following activities do take place in this stage:-

• Organisation of data collected
• Analysing of data collected
• Interpreting data collected (the geographical relationships)
• Comparing present and past geographical information
• Compiling of results / drawing sketch maps and diagram
• Drawing up conclusions and recommendations
• Dissemination of results to relevant stakeholders
• Final writing of Report.