Using Extended Field Trips to Enhance the Undergraduate Experience

Abstract

While the use of field trips is not new to undergraduate education, tailoring a 3- to 4-day field experience to enhance classroom instruction is challenging, but rewarding, for students, faculty, and alumni. Drawing on alumni in the private and public sectors to serve as guides has added significantly to the experience and has strengthened alumni ties to the department. Problems associated with extended field trips, such as those related to behavior and legal liabilities, can often be avoided by proper scheduling and insurance planning. Funding can be augmented by an industry eager to find qualified graduates.