Virtual field trips can be a great alternative to real field trips, especially in our current times. They offer students the opportunity to be immersed in new environments, cultural experiences, and view learning topics through an engaging lens in the comfort of their own classroom. As opposed to real field trips, virtual field trips and tours offer experiences at no cost (usually), no permission slips necessary, no volunteers needed, and the chance to visit anywhere around the world.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Virtual field trips and tours can be formal through an organization where a representative can video chat with your class and lead them through activities, teacher led through an organization\u2019s website such as aquariums and museums, or very informal such as through google maps and YouTube videos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just today, to cap off our social studies unit on maps and landmarks, my online grade 1 students embarked on a virtual field trip to Disney World! Using Google Maps<\/a> we were able to go from Edmonton, Alberta to Orlando, Florida and utilize the street view function to stroll through the streets of Disney World. We paired that with Youtube videos<\/a> (click to go on the Peter Pan ride!) to go on some rides to end our adventure. This is a simple example of how a teacher can create an experience for their class somewhere they would normally not get to go.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n