User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
I always viewed insects as pests; however, this field research has changed my attitudes towards insects. The light-trapping technique produces several live specimens hence enabling me to handle and experience live insects. The insects triggered strong feelings, which were both positive and negative. The feelings were positive because of the shape, colours, and diversity of the insects, while the feelings were negative because of the fear of the bites and diseases. Therefore, educating the importance of insects in the ecosystem using the field experience is very important. I chose the fieldwork as an important activity in the course of the research project. My project results confirmed that observation and collection of the insects during fieldwork can trigger curiosity and interest in the local natural ecosystems, hence increasing conservation awareness. I did not adequately analyze or evaluate my project’s social advantages because of the small number of participants.
