Virtual Fieldtrips

Definition

A virtual fieldtrip is an Internet-based trip that students take individually, in small groups or as a whole class.

Curricular Goal(s)

  • To help students synthesize what they have learned on a class fieldtrip
  • To prepare students for an upcoming fieldtrips
  • To students students with information about areas they are unable to visit as a class
  • To provide students with information about areas their teacher visited (Beal and Mason, 1999)
Uses
  • Virtual fieldtrips can be used for a variety of purposes which will be dependent on the curricular goal (see above). Students may visit museums, exhibits, cities, countries or other areas of interest.
Steps for Creating
  • Note that many locations already have virtual fieldtrips created so explore this possibility before creating your own
  • Select the location and research it prior to visiting
  • Develop a tentative plan for the virtual fieldtrip (i.e. an initial storyboard)
  • Contact individuals you wish to interview or consult during your visit
  • Visit the location with data collection tools (i.e. digital camcorders, digital cameras, tape recorders, etc.)
  • Modify your storyboard as needed (consulting with the person in charge of the site is a good idea)
  • Create the site
  • Revisit the location as needed
Examples
References and Resources

Page Developed by
Kara M. Dawson
Assistant Professor of Educational Technology
University of Florida

Original page: http://www.coe.ufl.edu/courses/eme5405/activities/strategiesoverview.html

Last Updated, March 13, 2003

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