Effectiveness of educational programs at the RCCD Nature Reserve

The regular classroom is not the only place where learning occurs; teachers can take learning beyond the classroom using academically centered field trips. In this study, students and teachers who participated in an outdoor educational program at a nature reserve responded to a questionnaire regarding their attitudes, understandings, and applicability of the material presented. The results showed that while teachers were able to make connections and apply what they learned to a regular science classroom, students were less likely to claim the ability to make those connections. This study explores the problem that this disconnect presents in education and also suggests possible solutions. The researcher proposes that a curriculum change be made in order to show pre-service teachers the importance of academically beneficial field trips so they will be prepared to implement effective educational programs in their classrooms