What are the benefits of a service-learning field trip?

Service-learning is a teaching method that combines service to the community using classroom curriculum. It is more than merely community service but rather a hands-on approach to mastering subject material while fostering responsibility within a society. Service-learning provides a context for talking about learning in terms of not only what students know but also what they are able to do. Participating in service allows students to use their gifts to benefit the world, which in-turn benefits themselves and their understanding of the greater purpose in their lives. Service-learning based field trips come in all forms and sizes. From half-day drives to a national park to a camping trip out of the city, field trips present a way for teachers to approach knowledge in a completely new way and for kids to have fun while learning.

Field trips give children a chance to experience hands-on learning while also being introduced to new environments. Stepping out of the classroom wards of boredom in the classroom and provides students with challenges that allow for more individualized learning while classroom teaching is often generalized and many times targeted to the slowest learners in the group. During field trips, kids have a chance to go the extra step and take on as much information as they want and can.

The distinctive element of service-learning is that it enhances the community through the service provided while resulting in a powerful learning experience

for others participating in providing a service. Service-learning is growing so rapidly because we can see its powerful impact on young people

and their development. Whatever the setting, the core element of

service-learning is always the intent that both providers and recipients find the experience beneficial, even transforming while linking to academic content and standards.

Field trips allow kids to get to know each other and interact in a more relaxed environment, without the pressure of grades or the constraints of the classroom. Field trips are a great way to cement difficult information. Historical facts, biology knowledge or even physics and chemistry can be experienced first-hand during a field trip.

Experts believe there are different methods of learning, including visual, auditory and tactile. Students who learn better through doing will greatly benefit from field trips, where the senses come into play a lot more than they would ever do in a classroom. Depending on the type of field trip, teachers can take advantage of this by allowing kids to not only observe but have a first hand experience and play a role in the lives of others. While tests and classroom education may work more effectively for some kids over others, field trips place everybody on an equal playing field. Studies prove using the hands-on method of teaching provides students with a greater learning experience rather than merely having it taught to them. Field trips can also be a great way to provide interaction among subjects. For example, a trip to a local nature center could be used to explore the flora and fauna, practice concepts learned in physics and mathematics, used to jump-start writing topics or made into a history and geography lesson.

Critical to this type of learning is building in time for students to reflect on their service experience. Reflection time helps students make the connection between classroom and community learning, and ensures they understand the extent to which they can impact positive change.

For more information or to make a difference through a service learning program, sign up for an educational tour, call Appleseed at (877) 889-7150 or visit www.AppleseedExpeditions.com.