Cecilia Steinman

Virtual Field Trips

Kirchen, Dennis J.  2011.  “Making and Taking Virtual Field Trips in Pre-K and the Primary Grades.”  Young Children, November: 22-26.

In this article, Dennis Kirchen discusses the use of Virtual Field Tr ips (VFTs) in Primary School classrooms.  Kirchen describes two different types of VFTs: Pre-developed VFTs and Teacher-created VFTs.   Kirchen argues that “when used properly, Teacher-created VFTs offer children positive educational experiences” (p. 24).  The benefits include accessibility, usability, affordability, and adaptability.  When planning a VFT, Kirchen stresses the importance of pre and post-trip activities to enhance student learning.  If shared with families, VFTs can also foster positive home-school connections.  Although there are some limitations of VFTs, Kirchen strongly believes that the benefits far outweigh the negatives.  Kirchen concludes that VFTs will never replace the real thing, but using them as a complement to other classroom instruction can support authentic, engaging and lasting learning.

Kirchen, an associate professor of Early Childhood Education, gives a detailed description of VFTs and their benefits when used properly in the classroom.  It is especially informative because he differentiates the two types of VFTs.  I agree with Kirchen that Teacher-created VFTs have more benefits than Predetermined ones. This article focuses on current data and addresses the current trend of increasing technology in the classroom.  I believe VFTs, when connected to the curriculum and thoughtfully planned and executed, can be a valuable teaching tool that can enhance student learning.  If you combine the latest technology developments with teachers’ creativity, the options for Virtual Field Trips are limitless!

http://www.naeyc.org/files/yc/file/201111/Kirchen_Virtual_Field_Trips_Online%201111.pdf

Now, Let's Take a Virtual Field Trip to the Donut Shop!

Take a field trip to a donut shop with your Preschool class without a bus and without counting kids again and again making sure you don't lose one in the factory.  This video takes you behind the scenes of a donut shop.  It shows how donuts are made with close-up video from beginning to end.  

This YouTube video is one example of a virtual field trip.  Imagine a class of preschoolers learning about nutrition.  They discuss examples of foods that are not healthy (but yummy).  This would be an example of a "pre-trip lesson" that Kirchen mentions in his article.  Then, this virtual trip could be used to extend the lesson and engage students.  A teacher could bring donuts in to share with the students as a "post-trip lesson".  

Suudancer, "Preschool Virtual Field Trip", YouTube, March 29, 2010.