Geography
In order to learn about the geographical location and significance of the workhouse, I will be required to conduct several geographical investigations and to harness my skills as an investigator, in order to gather research and information. In order to conduct my research I intend to carry out the following investigations:
- Inquire locally about the Dunshaughlin Historical Society in order to make contact regarding any information they may have.
- Visit my local library and speak with the librarians with regard to sourcing books or pamphlets with information about the Workhouse.
- Visit the county library in Navan in order to observe, analyse and evaluate some of the Minute Books from the famine years.
- Visit the Workhouse and observe its location regarding the current roads, housing, and the centre of Dunshaughlin, using map skills.
Through these investigations I intend to harness my geographical and scientific skills (map, globes and graphical skills, questioning, observing, predicting, investigating and experimenting, analysing, recording and communicating) (NCCA, 1999), while also educating myself.
Science
Scientific investigations are central to the study of a place. Conducting research into the materials used to construct the workhouse, both in its original state and renovated state, and how they change over time, provides us with a direct link to the Scientific Education curriculum for primary school children in Ireland.
In relation to my own scientific investigations for my study of the workhouse, I intend to conduct the following:
- Investigate and analyse information found about the construction of the workhouse.
- Observe the dilapidated ruins of the workhouse and the recently renovated part, and record observations based on the durability of the materials.
- Speak with members of Dunshaughlin Historical Society in order to find out more information.