Journal # 7

http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25443&DirectListComboInd=D

The article discusses virtual field trips - interactive displays, visuals, scenarios, etc. that are supposed to be as good as the real thing. The viability is debated and explored throughout, and we wonder if it may even replace the real thing.

Personally, I prefer real field trips. However, as the article discusses, that’s just not a possibility for some students – be it for financial, situational, or even personal reasons. Virtual field trips are a way to circumvent this problem. While nothing beats the real thing, it’s a close second. It’s an opportunity to explore a foreign world without leaving the safety and comfort of the classroom – something I’m sure parents would approve of too.

Would you take your students on virtual field trips?

While I had no initial plan to, in light of this article, I don’t see why not. I’m open to trying out different tools and formats. This actually seems like a viable, even fun option.

How do you feel about other virtual class assignments – virtual labs, demos, etc?

While nothing beats the real thing, like with field trips, they are acceptable substitutes if the real ones are unattainable. It’s essentially the same material, just a different method.