Do overnight field trips make a difference? : perspectives from women who know
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Issue Date
2010-06-22T21:13:51Z
Editor
Authors
Cappadocia, Howard
License
Subject
Experiential learning
Environmental awareness
Education
Secondary education
Geography
Environmental awareness
Education
Secondary education
Geography
Abstract
This research project illuminates the ideas and personal experiences of seven female, secondary school graduates who participated in experiential learning field trips while attending high school. Its purpose is to attempt to understand how overnight field trips of different durations have impacted former students and determine the meaning of their experience. This report identifies five significant categories arising from a modified grounded theory analysis of the students’ perspectives on their field trip experience: Organization, Educational Opportunities, Relationships, Environment and Experiences which lead to one significant conclusion: field trips are transformational to female high school students. The data also reflects the impact field trip participation has had on the environmental awareness, values and attitudes of participants. I conclude with recommendations that may prove useful for teachers planning overnight field trips, TCDSB staff responsible for field trip approval and for Royal Roads MEEC staff responsible for organizing similar experiences for their students.