Student Projects In Environmental Science

A one-stop resource for quantitative environmental science methodology, this guide walks readers through their research project from the initial stages of choosing a suitable topic, conducting the relevant experiments, and interpreting the data through an effective presentation of the results. Stuart Harrad and Lesley Batty, School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK Miriam Diamond, Department of Geography, The University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada George Arhonditsis, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, The University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Student Projects in Environmental Science provides an accessible introduction to the key stages involved when undertaking a research project. Beginning with a discussion of what constitutes research, the book shows how to develop and plan a feasible research topic based upon a testable hypothesis. It then stresses the importance of logical experimental design that facilitates the use of appropriate statistical treatment of data so that the research questions posed may be answered. To reinforce key points, use is made throughout of illustrative case studies covering a wide range of topics. The book develops student understanding of what statistical tests are appropriate to use when analyzing their data, and offers practical guidance on how these may be conducted using widely used commercially available software such as Excel, Minitab, and SPSS. An invaluable text for undergraduates and Masters level students taking courses in Environmental Science and Physical Geography. The only text to cover generic project issues such as research planning/resource management and specialist environmental science material in one book. Takes a case-study approach to illustrate the range of environmental science topics that students may encounter with cases supplied by specialists in the field. Practical worked examples and self-assessment tasks illustrate key statistical and mathematical points so as to keep heavy theory to a minimum. Research projects are among the core components of many undergraduate and Masters degrees within environmental science and physical geography, and students increasingly undertake courses in quantitative research methodology before starting on their own assignment. This one-stop-shop text guides students through their research project from the initial stages of choosing a suitable topic, of conducting the relevant experiments and interpreting the data, through to effective presentation of the results. Takes a case-study approach to illustrate the range of environmental science topics, with cases supplied by specialists in the field. Practical worked examples and self-assessment tasks illustrate key statistical and mathematical points so as to keep heavy theory to a minimum Covers software such as Excel, SPSS and mathematical modelling, and includes statistical tables