THE CHANGING NATIONAL CONTEXT OF FIELDWORK IN GEOGRAPHY

The purpose and role of fieldwork in geographical education are examin ed. Fieldwork provision and practice have been affected by the replace ment of a 'traditional' by a 'new' pattern of higher education in the United Kingdom. The key features of these contrasting structures are i dentified. Contextual changes pose threats but also introduce opportun ities for innovation and change in fieldwork teaching, learning, asses sment and organisation. An agenda for the development of fieldwork in geography is outlined.