Journal #1

Zanetis, J. (2010). The Beginner's guide to interactive virtual field trips. Learning and leading with education, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25443&DirectListComboInd=D

I think that this type of field trip is a more reasonable way for students to learn outside of the classroom. With all the budget cuts in California it is almost impossible to get funding for a worthwhile field trip. This new technology of Interactive Virtual field trips is even more interesting to me. There are actual people who can talk and interact with the students, which can make them feel like they are actually out of the classroom. I would definitely consider this type of field trip for my students because I feel that it would be beneficial to the learning process.

Can Interactive Virtual field trips be used in physical education?

I think that this type of field trip would be a a great tool for physical education. Teachers could use this tool to link math or science to the learning process for physical fitness. Not many physical education teachers are given the opportunity to get students on field trips for this subject because of the cost. This would be a way to put real life applications to physical fitness without spending an arm and a leg. Teachers could do anatomy lesson, physiology lessons or even link math lessons to certain sports. I think it would help the students "buy in" to physical education with this added element. Many times students will say that physical education is not important because they will never use it, but with this tool we can start to move towards a comprehensive model of physical education that will benefit our students in the long run.

What can you do if you do not have a video conferencing unit?

I think you could try to apply for grant money or hold a fund raising event in your school. If your principal can see all the benefits this unit would bring to the school, then I think they would be more willing to he;p you out.