Urban Green Areas – their functions under a changing lifestyle of ...

Generally, researches have to start by reviewing current state of published scientific
knowledge. Statistics is another important source because statistics can deliver a first
overview about the situation in Hanoi.
Concerning the empirical data collection, in this thesis several methods were applied:
Visitor tracking, observations and surveys set the basis for the empirical part of this study.
Additionally, expert interviews were used for a thematic exploration and for discussions
about the results and recommendations of this study. Furthermore, mapping is also used to
display the situation of investigated areas more spatially and visibly.
The concrete situation of statistical information base about Hanoi and in general the
methods for empirical data collection will be described in the following subchapters.
1.4.1 Statistics
Statistics provide usually a quick overview of related issues. On national level, statistics
document can roughly provide with urban green areas all over the country and on local
level, statistics give an impression in detail of the study area.
Regarding the subject of parks and gardens three aspects should be covered by statistical
data – information about nature (such as climate, vegetation cover and soil), population and
land-use.
The situation concerning statistics about UGAs in Vietnam is unfortunately inadequate. Ten
years ago, EZA SO (1999: 5) complained that “Compared to the countries previously
reviewed, Viet Nam offered few relevant background documents and very little statistical
material.” The problem has remained poorly-developed up to now. In this case, statistics of
Hanoi proves a striking case although it is the capital city of Vietnam. Due to the rapid
expansion of the city, the administration system changes, and affects the systematic
structure of the statistics. Consequently, the most up-dated data have been made for the new
areas only.
In addition, bureaucratic management system makes the accessibility more difficult (read
more in: 1.3.3). For example, the government gives the rights of management, exploration
and planning to privates companies. Thus, internal information is normally unpublished.
That makes the accessibility of data more difficult.
1.4.2 Observation
Observation seems to be “the easiest method in the world to use since it is ubiquitous and
we can all already do it” (LAURIER 2003: 133). It “is in a broad sense to understand
controlled direct or indirect perception with the help of human senses of perception and – if
necessary - supported by specific instruments of observation and measurement”
(KROMREY 2008: 28; translated by STEINGRUBE 2011).
Scientific observations should fulfill four criteria:
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