Reconceptualizing electronic field trips: a Deweyian perspective

Abstract

Electronic field tripping is a relatively new form of large‐scale distance education that attempts to provide contextually rich learning materials embedded within a coherent educational content base. Using Dewey’s (1943) framework for the natural learning impulses of children, we describe the potential pedagogical benefits afforded by electronic field trips (EFTs). We outline a shift in distance education from a techno‐centric focus on hardware and logistics to the inherent features of children’s desires to explore their world, which represents an alteration of perspective and purpose in understanding computer technologies in classroom settings. Finally, we demonstrate that while each independent element of the EFT experience promotes one or more of Dewey’s impulses, bringing together all the resources provided for EFTs fosters deeper connections, more engaged learning, and contextualized distance learning true to the spirit of live field trips.