In the article I read online, the author described the benefits of taking a virtual field trip. He explained that they allow the students to enter into worlds that are not possible with a normal field trip; the students can travel back in time, or look at the microscopic world that they would not be able to see otherwise. The author also argued that a teacher cannot pull up just any website and claim that it would be beneficial to his or her students; it must be a highly educational website, and it must be given the thought that an actual field trip would be given. Some websites come as a package deal, while with some, the teacher can personalize the field trip to meet the specific needs of the class at that time.
The use of a virtual field trip would greatly enhance a student's learning experience. When used in conjunction with other aspects of teaching, this technology would be able to further a student's knowledge of what is being taught, and would supplement the non-virtual learning that takes place in a classroom.
I feel that virtual field trips would be very important to students' educations, especially in this era. Most homes have a computer, and it is important for students to understand that they can be helpful in their education. I do, however, think that virtual field trips could become a problem. If the teacher is not taking the time to make sure that they are fully prepared and that the website they are using is adequate, the field trip could become more of a hindrance, than a help. Virtual Field Trips should be used sparingly and in conjunction with actual field trips and classroom teaching.
More research would be helpful to my understanding of the topic, and its usefulness to the students. If I were to gain a better understanding about virtual field trips, I would be better equipped to make a decision regarding whether or not I would use them in my classroom.
4 comments:
This post helped me to understand the topic a lot better. I definitely agree with everything that you had to say and I agree that when not supervised, the virtual field trips could become more of a free time than an actual learning experience.
I really enjoyed your word choice and I am looking forward to reading your next post!
I agree with you that teachers should plan virtual field trips carefully. I think that using a VFT to enhance a lesson being taught would be beneficial to the students too. I also think that it would be alright for the teacher to send the students on a fun virtual field trip of their choice as well. I think if you let the class have a say is what they are learning once in a while, the class will be more eager to learn. With all this talk about how great virtual field trips are, I am starting to wonder if this will put an end to students ever going on an actual real field trip. VTC’s are great, but I still do not think it could ever replace the feeling of going on a real school field trip. What do you think?
Your blog really had a lot of insight into this topic. The virtual field trip would have to be created by someone with alot of knowledge to make sure it is actually something that students can learn from. I also agree that technology in our day and age has progressed so much that is mostly available to anyone and everyone which is convenient to teacher and student.
I agreed with what you said. It is true that some teachers may see this as an easy way out and may not be as prepared as they should be. I think most teachers should take their time so that the students can really benefit from the VFT. It would also be great to do hands on learning in the classroom or another type of learning if possible to go along with the field trip. It would give them a better understanding and it would add something extra. Good article!
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