Sure, student trips are full of fun and adventure, but how can you be sure the educational aspect doesn’t become lost throughout all the memorable moments students are making? Follow these 3 tips to ensure your curriculum is not only included in your trip, but also enhances the overall experience.
Do Your Research.
Choose locations and sites that lend themselves to your material in ways that spark conversation and can be applied to your curriculum later down the road. A helpful research tip is to talk with docents and curators beforehand to determine what types of things may be covered on a tour or during a visit. That way, you can get ahead of the game information wise and plan follow-up activities accordingly.
Talk With Students.
Once you’ve worked with Hemisphere to secure your itinerary, begin speaking to your students ahead of time about the places and topics they’ll encounter while on their trip—whether it’s just an occasional conversation in the classroom or a more in-depth look at a subject via research-driven book reports. Getting them excited about the things they’ll see and learn on their trip will make a lasting impression once they finally get there.
Debrief.
Once home from the trip, have students reflect on the whole experience and apply what they’ve learned in a variety of ways. Have them write up an article on their favorite parts of the trip or ask specific questions that—if they can remember correctly—will serve as valuable touch points for their learning for the rest of the school year and beyond.
Courtesy of Hemisphere Educational Travel