1. Valuing and Evaluating Elementary Science Field Trips Sally Zirkle University of Texas at Dallas November 23, 2004

2. Remembering our own field trips Do you remember an exciting and fun field trip from your elementary school days? Why do you think you still recall this trip?

3. What is a field trip? … an excursion for the purpose of a firsthand observation …outside the sphere of formal education Can be short jaunts or major expeditions Field Trip History 101 –Roots in Middle Ages –Valued by Aristotle and Socrates –Spread throughout Europe and Asia –Recently valued in U.S. education system

4. Why take a field trip? Firsthand science experience may encourage students to choose a science-related career Connects classroom science with real-world science Helps students be less isolated from their environment and communities

5. How to prepare for a field trip Plan, plan, plan! Integrate trip into current unit of study Prepare and involve students beforehand Teacher should take a reconnaissance trip if possible Be informed of school rules, guidelines and budgetary constraints

6. How to take a successful field trip Students must have hands-on participation Students should: –Take notes –Ask questions –Obtain literature –Take photographs if desired –Thank hosts (if any) Teacher’s field day checklist: –List of participants –Reminder of rules of conduct –Permission/Medical slips –Inventory of food and equipment, including first aid kit and mobile phone

7. Evaluating a field trip Many different and valid assessment options, including: –Posttest –Follow-up activities –Questionnaires/Evaluation surveys written or oral –Qualitative & creative evaluations, such as journals, portfolios, artwork, bulletin boards

8. Conclusion Science field trips are still an important part of young students’ educational experience Research shows that field trips: –Are valuable and valid learning experiences –Improve students’ attitude toward science –Broadens student’s perspective of their world –Provide a needed break from the formal classroom setting Further research should continue to validate the field trip experience.