School Trips
When my kids were getting ready for school trips, I was the worried mum. My husband always reminded me that these activities create memories that last for a lifetime. He was right. Both my children graduated, went on to university...and they still talk about their memories from school trips! If your young person is getting ready for an ISA school trip this month, this advice from "Educating Adventures" will help to ease your worries:
School trips improve critical thinking skills
Global citizenship is fast becoming a hot topic and society is looking to schools to prepare its students for the future, particularly in regards to teaching problem solving, soft-skills and preparing students for jobs that currently don’t exist. The tried and tested school trip continues to prove itself an effective way to incorporate soft-skills such as strong communication, problem solving and critical thinking into teaching.
Experiential learning takes place
The classroom is an effective simulation of the real world however experiential learning argues that when learning is shifted into to a real-life situation it becomes more powerful in individuals. This supports the idea that in order to prepare students effectively for life we need to give them memorable experiences such as a school trip.
Greater bond between students and teachers
Getting to know your students more throughout the trip is a great way to build strong rapport with them. Teachers reap the benefits of this for the rest of the school year. Students who have a personal connection with their teachers are more motivated and connected to what they are being taught.
Helps those who learn by doing
Switching up the environment and bringing students out of the classroom and into the real world can be a great way to spark their interest. Take advantage of the informal learning situation and ignite passion in those who learn by ‘doing’.
Lifelong memories are made
When in a new environment, the students will need to work as a team with other classmates outside of their normal group. Not only that, but they make lifelong memories amongst peers, which is no doubt a fun learning experience in itself.
Warm regards,
Valerie DeGraw
School Counsellor
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