My team made the time to focus on field studies with extra time and effort this year. We met during a summer day to review the field study events, dates, and learning actions. Then we followed the plan.
A field study is a great opportunity to broaden students' experience of learning beyond the classroom and school environment. It's also a great way to celebrate your learning and preparation with a special event that culminates or adds to the study.
To prepare and carry out a successful field trip, it's important to focus on the following elements:
Safety
The first charge of field studies is safety. In today's world, it's very important that the field study is well planned with an eye on safety and that chaperones have what they need to ensure a safe trip for all children. Each parent should have a class list that includes the field study protocols, teacher's cell phone number, and school phone number. Also, before boarding the bus, review the protocols with students including the usual rules of staying with the group, never using a restroom alone, and using safe behavior on the bus or train. Finally, as children transition from one part of the trip to the next, check off their names on the student list to make sure everyone is there.
Students First
Focus your time and effort on the students during the field trip. Make sure they are comfortable, and have what they need to access the event with attention, interest, and enjoyment.
Preparation
When you make the time in class to prepare for the field trip with pre-trip study, the trip is much more enjoyable and educational.
Follow-Up
Make the time to let children reflect on the trip, write thank you notes, and give suggestions for future field studies.
Lead Time
Planning field trips ahead of time is advantageous as you can often get financial breaks, good tickets, and special programming if you plan ahead. Planning ahead also gives you time to match the field study well with the grade-level curriculum program.
Our field trips so far this year have been a step up from years past. I'd still like to grow the trips to be even more interactive, and I'll think about that this summer as I prepare for the next year of teaching and learning.
