Magnolia Walker Company Ezine

Field Trip Tips

by Shirley M.R. Minster

One of the best ways to enhance learning is to go on a field trip. Receiving first-hand knowledge from a skilled worker, observing how something is done and becoming involved physically are all integral parts of a field trip. Before you hop into the car, train, or boat on these types of adventures, try the following hints to greatly enhance the experience and fulfill the expectations of both the teacher and the student.

By planning the trip well and in advance, the teacher saves steps. Decide if the field trip will be used to introduce a new academic topic, to provide 'hands on' experience, or to culminate a study. Determine the total cost of the trip, including transportation, food, lodging, and souvenirs. Remember to always plan for those unexpected extras. Call ahead to check the facilities for parking, food and/or picnic availability. Plan the travel route so precious time is not wasted being lost. If necessary, make reservations early and ask if any educational material can be mailed prior to the date. Check to find out if educational discounts apply. Sometimes it is helpful to go alone on a separate day to scout out points of interest, if it is a local site.

A few days before embarking on the trip, discuss relevant terminology with your children. Encourage research by either assigning or looking up information together concerning the destination. I have discovered that tour guides enjoy having an informed group who ask intelligent questions. Very often they will go further than their normal speech if they realize that the group has a deep interest and wants to learn as much as possible.

Decide what the proper attire and essentials to take on the trip. If visiting the State House, dress up. If tramping through the forest or along the ocean, wear old clothes and take hats and sweaters. Always have a well-stocked first aid kit with sunscreen, water, and lightweight snacks in the car.

Once arriving at the site and before starting the fun, take a few moments to review safety issues, staying together manners. Nothing ruins a field trip faster than improper behavior or speech. Then enjoy the day.

When you return home, remember that follow-up is as important as preparation. Thank-you notes and pictures sent to the tour guides are always appreciated. Draw a picture or mural to remind everyone of the good times. You may be surprised at what the children observed that you missed. Write a poem, story, or song together. Make a collage of favorite photographs. If nature items were collected, fill a shadow box with them. Suggest the children write to a friend or relative describing what was the best part of the whole trip. As you can see, the possibilities are endless for wrap-up.

The reason for taking the field trip is simple: to learn more about an area of interest. How you accomplish that is most important. From planning stage to reminiscence can be a wonderful experience for the entire family.