When students learn in the real world, they feel a sense of purpose, he says. They really know why they're learning. She finds it much more engaging to see how a subject is applied in the real world. When learning about abolitionist John Brown's role in American history, she appreciated a field trip to Harpers Ferry, W.Va., she says. Close to Home Teachers shouldn't let logistical concerns discourage them from pursuing field studies, experts agree.
Many possibilities involve little trouble or cost.
A field study can be as simple as taking 2nd graders for a walk through the neighborhood on recycling day to gather data, Thomas says. Or students can take samples and conduct water-quality studies at a stream near the school. Teachers shouldn't assume that every student in the class must go on a particular field experience, Campbell says. Sometimes a small group of students can go. At a high school in Boston, for example, a class was designing a plan to develop vacant lots.