Journal 5

"Making Field Trips Podtastic" by Aliece M. Weller, John C. Bickar, and Paul McGuinness

This article discusses the use of "hand held wireless technology" during class field trips and how students are more engaged in their learning through the use of these kinds of technologies. And while students are more likely to engage themselves in various parts of the museum, or wherever students may be visiting, through the use of such wireless technologies, it may take away from human interaction among students in a classroom. Although such isolation, using these hand held wireless technologies, may be intended under certain circumstances, it should not be the case for students. This is why educators should encourage students to collaborate and interact with their peers while also engaging themselves in their personal podcasts during field trips. Despite the problems that podcasting may create, as far as human interaction goes, it is still a great way to enhance student learning outside of the classroom and encourage student engagement on class field trips.

Questions:
1. Do you think podcasting on field trips is a good idea?
I think podcasting on field trips is a wonderful idea, because just as the article says, it is more likely for students to engage themselves in learning through the use of podcasts. I think that because podcasts can be fun and entertaining, students will show more interest and less boredom when learning in museums or other places that students might go to for field trips.

2. Do you agree with the article that podcasting is likely to lead to less human interaction?
Most definitely because the more engaged students are with their personal wireless devices, the less likely they are to collaborate and share their thoughts and ideas with their parents, which is very important for student learning. This is why I agree with the authors of this article when they say that it is important to encourage student interactions on field trips in addition to podcasts. Both the wireless devices and collaborating with peers will ensure that students will be learning that much more.