An Outside Place for Social Studies

Based on what I saw during my observation period, I realize how much teachers teach from the textbook. From reading aloud to fill-in the blanks worksheets, there seems to be something missing. Something that really engages students. That's when I stumbled upon this article!
"An Outside Place for Social Studies" by Andrew Foran - Canadian Social Studies. 41;1 Fall 2008.

This article emphasizes the importance of moving away from your school and classroom and getting OUTSIDE! The author focuses on field trips, but I think that this can be expanded to include activities such as simulation exercises and even guest speakers.

My favorite quote that I feel best summarizes this article is as follows:

“History is an experience of reconnecting to and exploration of a world that came before the formalization of education and the technological drive of modern living. At one time we were, as a species, more directly related to nature, and our learning, consequently, was probably linked more directly to the natural world. Over time, the place for learning became a modern, centralized location called school. But nature still seems to call to us from outside, and there are a few who listen.”

Thanks for reading and check out the article. The author is very passionate about getting students out of the classroom and into the real world!!!