FIELD TRIPS FIRST

It is common practice for students to study a topic before going on their field trip. The field trip is ususally the grand finale of the lessons.

However, the field trip should be the first activity of the lesson or unit of study. The reason for this is because students or learners will have a true interest in learning content after the field trip. Most students will want to dig deeper into the topic and research. It will also be easier to make meaning of their lessons because their brains now have a place to connect new information. Connecting new information to something you have experienced or know is vital for memory.

I hope classroom teachers and homeschool parents give this a try. I think you will be pleased with how much easier it is when students have an experience to connect their learning to.