Techniques and Methods for the Field: An Introduction and Commentary

Abstract

As a subject that deals with the evolution of the landscape, geomorphology is classically considered to be a field discipline. Although field studies are increasingly supplemented with laboratory (particle size, component analysis, and chemical techniques) or computer-based studies (e.g., remote sensing, digital elevation models, and virtual globes) much of the data means very little when applied without fieldwork and observation. This paper provides a brief introduction to the field studies discussed in this volume, a discussion of preparing for fieldwork, a summary of the main drivers for investigating landforms both from the perspective of on top and below the ground and a brief commentar..