Is Science and Biology fieldwork in ‘unexplored’ areas of Gozo viable?

Abstract

This study aimed to explore and analyse the field studies potential of different sites in Gozo that are less-frequently used by teachers of Biology and Integrated Science during their field trips. Interviews about fieldwork practices and preferences were conducted with eleven Biology and Integrated Science teachers teaching in three Secondary Schools in Gozo. A principal finding that emerged was that teachers in Gozo usually visit the same ‘core’ sites for their fieldwork sessions and do not consider other sites that may not be ‘mainstream’. This study identified ten other sites that are potentially-suitable for field studies (Wied il-Mielaħ Area, Wied il-Għasri Area, L-Għolja tan-Nuffara, L-Għolja ta’ Għammar, Il-Fanal tal-Ġordan Area, Tal-Maqjel Area, Il-Fekruna Promontary Area, Wied taċ-Ċianti, Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar and Il-Kantra tax-Xlendi). These studies fulfil most of the requirements for a field studies site and were therefore considered as good Alternative Sites. A web-based guide (http://sciencefieldworkgozo.weebly.com/) for each site was compiled, providing information on the importance of each site and on practical matters including safety, travelling time, accessibility and hazards that may be present on site.