I’m a Physical Geographer at the University of Worcester, where I’ve worked for many years. My specialisms are in mountain glaciation, particularly Younger Dryas glaciation in the English Lake District. I’ve held various roles, including Geography Course Leader, Head of Geography and Archaeology, and Deputy Head of School. I’m also a Staff Governor at the University.

I am interested in both the technology and pedagogy associated virtual fieldwork, but with a clear bias towards how it is used in teaching. I’ve been involved in virtual fieldwork development since 2005, working with colleagues (notably Ian Maddock and Alan Dixon) to develop various online resources for our students. These include: Mountain Hazard Mapping Virtual Field Course (2005), Roseg Valley Virtual Hike (2009), Virtual Metu (western Highlands, Ethiopia) (2009), Pasture Beck and Hayeswater Valleys, Lake District (2010), Deepdale, Lake District (2014).

Ian and I have also collaborated with the Center for Watershed Sciences at the University of California, Davis, to develop virtual fieldwork resources for Tuolumne Meadows, Lyell Canyon and Big Pine (2013 – 2016).

In the next 12 – 24 months, I’m looking to add video captured by drones and other devices, including equipment capable of capturing 360 degree videos. I would also like to develop additional learning materials (e.g. worksheets) for schools and the general public. Other items on the to-do list include exploring the use of head-mounted displays (starting with the Oculus Quest) and investigating the effectiveness of virtual fieldwork for learners (I’m sure context will be everything here!).

Collaborators Wanted

If you would like to get involved with this work, please do get in touch.

Des McDougall
Worcester, UK.

August 2019