The ‘project’: putting student‐controlled, small‐group work and transferable skills at the core of a geography course

The advantages and problems of project work in geography are outlined. The origins of the large‐scale ‘Project’ at Salford are seen in the need for a new curriculum, and in the University's ‘education for capability’ objectives, which led to the Project being placed at the philosophical core of the new degree course in 1987. The Project has subsequently been translated into the department's ‘Enterprise’ scheme. The structure of the Project is outlined, with particular reference to group size and working, student control, task selection, staff input, geographical and professional skills, assessment, and problems. Three tasks are outlined, and student reaction is assessed.