Adults on a field trip acting like 5 year olds?
I recently took my ADULT class on a field trip to see a movie. It was during class hours and was medically related to the course. Everyone drove themselves and we met in front of the theater. I believe they were drinking before I arrived, however, I have no proof. Also several of them "got up" in the middle of the movie and went to see the movie next door. I have only been teaching for 8 months and I am unsure how to address this.
The movie needed to have an assignment with it that would have the students follow the movie for information. Something that could be handed it at the end or shortly after the movie for credit. Otherwise it can turn into social playtime, and all your energy did not accomplish much. The movie lacked structure, and they viewed it as an easy night at class. Tie in an assignment next time and you will get a different result.
The first year teaching can be difficult, Tammie.
I think perhaps your adult students saw the field trip as a 'party' atmosphere(think dark theater, refreshments, and the cute student two seats over).
The premature exiting could be handled with a quiz relative to the content of the movie they were to see, or discussion on how the student interpreted the content of the movie.
Regarding the alleged drinking issue, future field trips should cover the ramifications of such actions according to your institutions catalog and/or policy.
Clearly your students demonstrated unacceptable behavior. Let them know the consequences of their actions, and follow through with appropriate documentation.
Remember-five year olds like to see what they can get away with, and if you're all bark and no bite, the behavior will continue of worsen.
