Authentic Experiences in Science education
Technology is changing the way we think about science education. According to Hofstein and Rosenfeld (1996) “Human beings learn science from a variety of sources, in a variety of settings, and for a variety of reasons.” (p. 89) Field trips are informal settings that offer real-world connections to abstract concepts learning within the classroom.
Field trips are an example of informal learning. The following statement by Crane Nicholson and Chen (1994) in Hofstein and Rosenfeld (1996) explains how science education incorporates both informal and formal learning.
Informal learning refers to activities that occur outside the school setting, are not developed primarily for school use, are not developed to be part of an ongoing school curriculum, and are characterized by voluntary as opposed to mandatory participation as part of a credited school experience. Informal learning experiences may be structured to meet a stated set of objectives and may influence attitudes, convey information, and/or change behavior. (p. 3)
One example of an informal learning experience is going on a field trip. Therefore, incorporating technology to provide informal learning with regard to fieldtrips is way to supplement formal training with real-world experience. Including a Virtual Field Trip page on our site shows how we apply informal learning through an online experience.
While Hofstein and Rosenfeld specify informal and formal settings in education, it is important to consider the value of virtuality in the digital age. Based on Roblyer and Doering (2013) virtual field trips are an effective way to "locate information to investigate scientific issues and questions." (p. 321) Furthermore, Gillett (2011) advocates virtual field trips to promote experiential learning. In science education inquiry-learning is experiential. Therefore virtual field trips are beneficial in science instruction.
The Internet has given science teachers access to sites that support scientific inquiry. Specifically the Exploratorium is a treasure-trove of information, videos, tutorials, exhibits, and experiments that all relate to science education. Roblyer and Doering (2013) identify the Exploratorium as an important museum and resource for science instruction. Taking a virtual field trip to the Exploratorium is arguably more resourceful that visiting in person. The multitudinous exhibits and activities are more accessible online than in person.
Begin your authentic scientific investigation by following the link to the Exploratorium.
Reference
Experience the Exploratorium. (n.d.). Retrieved August 27, 2014 from Experience the Exploratorium. (n.d.). Retrieved August 27, 2014.
Gillett, J. (2011). The Use of Experiential Education and Field Trips for Learning. Journal of Educational Multimedia and Hypermedia, 20(2), 173-177. Chesapeake, VA: AACE. Retrieved August 26, 2014 from http://www.editlib.org/p/36043/
Hofstein, A., & Rosenfeld, S. (1996). Bridging the gap between formal and informal science learning. Retrieved August 22, 2014 from http://www.bobpearlman.org/BestPractices/Israel/Bridging%20the%20Gap.pdf
Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2013). Teaching and
Learning with Technology in Mathematics and Science. Integrating educational
technology into teaching (6th ed., pp. 308-327). Boston: Pearson/Allyn and
Bacon Publishers.
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