The
article titled “Yes, You Can Take a Field Trip to India!” shows how using technology,
a classroom can now take field trips to places all around the world. The
article talks about how one teacher uses blogs and pictures on a trip to India, to keep
in touch with a third grade classroom while on the trip. The teacher also
brought back souvenirs, answered classroom questions through email, and
attempted to skype. The classroom is able to experience a virtual field trip by
the information provided through the traveling teacher. After the trip, the
teacher went to visit the classroom and discuss the field trip further in
person. The article explained how through all the different activities, the
students were able to experience a virtual field trip to India.
I
feel that this is a great way for students to take “field trips” and to learn
about the world in general. When I become an elementary school teacher I would
love to do this with my own class. Children would find this very fun and
exciting I am sure. I think it would be an added benefit if my students kept a
journal along with reading the blogs. As an added bonus I think it would be
good for my students to blog back and forth with the traveler in addition to
emailing. Another idea I had was for students to make videos with questions and
requests for the traveler. I think it is also a great way for my students to
also learn more about the use of technology with education.
This
is an example of ISTE standards for students number two. Standard number two is
about communication and collaboration and requires students to “use digital
media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a
distance”. The students clearly learn information across many countries in this
example with the teacher in the story. Standard two also requires students to
“develop cultural understanding and global awareness by engaging with learners
of other cultures”, which is also shown in this article. The students learn
about another culture by taking a virtual field trip by blogging with the
traveling teacher.
Casolaro, Nancy. (2013). Yes, you can take a field trip to India!. Learning & Leading with Technology, 1(41), 30-32.
I believe this is a great idea Diana. I would love to do this with my future students as well. It sounds interesting and fun. The majority of our students do not have the opportunity to travel and this is a great way for them to get expose to other countries and cities.
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