Field Trips for Adult Learners
I think it is significant to encourage field trips for those learners of online environments. I recommend my students to visit libraries in person to examine dissertations on the shelves and gain a visual of the expectations for writing.
Jeanne,
A good guest speaker is able to paint a pretty good picture of situations or typical work settings.
Barry Westling
I love the idea of field trips as well. I have not utilized as much, because I teach Human Resources at night, and work full time in HR during the day. Most HR offices are closed at night. I will have to think about how to incorporate in. I usually bring guest speakers in instead. I also like the idea of the 5x7 worksheets.
Larissa,
Either way has benefits and perhaps some disadvantages. The may interest I have is what learning will occur from the activity. There may be a bit more control over the event if done during class hours, but I understand there may be challenges with this as well.
Barry Westling
Because these are adult learners, do you find that field trips using designated classroom times are more efficient or field trips assigned according to their schedules/on their own are better??
Dave,
Yes, there are few classroom activities that can have the impact a good field trip can provide in terms of motivation and inspiration. I think for some, they realize they are viewing, perhaps for the first time, a look at what they will soon be doing. And some may feel a renewed sense of hope for a better future for themselves and their families.
Barry Westling
I have found that field trips are extremely valuable to bring to life the field of study for my students. These excursions promote thought and give real time examples of what it is like to work in the field. I have had students inspired to even make career decisions based on field trip experiences. The change of pace is always a nice thing as well!
Margaret,
I agree that, depending on the course, many online students are limited in exploring tangible aspects of their couse of study. Visitation of museums, libraries, and officiaries such as city and county departments can add an enhanced experience, and contribute to a richer learning setting.
Barry Westling
