Field Trip Guide Article – How to Choose the Right Field Trip Location
Early education experts agree that children retain knowledge better when they are having fun and learning with their senses. That’s why field trips are such an important part of a child’s education. When students are out of the classroom and immersed in learning, those concepts are more likely to stay with them.
But choosing a field trip location can be difficult. Here are some guidelines for picking the perfect spot for your next out-of-the-classroom adventure.
1. Identify educational objectives
Before you can choose a place to visit, you need to determine what you want your students to learn from their experience. Do you want them to explore the cosmos by seeing stars and planets lit up around them? Do you want your students to dig for fossils and experience what it’s like to be an archaeologist or a geologist? Or are you targeting problem solving and deductive reasoning?
Once you determine the field trip’s educational objectives it will be easier to narrow down your search for the right location.
2. Gather information from several locations
After choosing a focus for your field trip, gather materials from several different locations that offer the experience you’re looking for. Many organizations and businesses have digital brochures or handouts that will help you determine if it’s the right fit for your students.
3. Look at the specifics of each location and their accommodations
Not only will you be looking for a field trip destination that suits your educational needs, but you’ll also want a location that will work logistically as well. If the local museum has a maximum capacity of 50 children and you have 200 then that will be a problem. Knowing these details ahead of time will help the trip run smoothly.
4. Know your budget
More than likely your school or district will be financing the field trip, so make sure you know exactly how much you can spend. Be aware of additional expenses like the use of transportation or providing lunch. This will help you decide whether a field trip location is worth the price.
5. Discuss location information with colleagues and educational professionals
If you’re new to field trip planning, then talking to fellow educators or leaders can be helpful. They can give you insight into destinations in the area and what previous groups have experienced. Discussing your plans will also help you determine which location best suits your educational objectives.
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Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.
