Informal learning supports formal education by facilitating students' learning and helping them to expand their knowledge outside the classroom. This paper explores the impact of informal learning environments on learning outcomes. This study aims to answer the question 'How does the use of informal learning environments within the scope of formal…

This study investigates the impact of instructional methods based on a one-day informal science field experience comparing a teacher-centered methodology versus a student-centered (inquiry-based) methodology. The 5E learning cycle was selected as the framework for implementing the inquiry-based learning for the treatment groups as it provides the…

In recent decades much attention has been given to the optimization of professional development to support education reform; especially as it relates to science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM) fields. Many studies have shown that the most effective STEM professional development programs include active inquiry opportunities that…

This study compares the field experience and development of sense of place (in this case, human attributed meanings and attachments to the field area) in geoscience students on three separate course sections of a six-day introductory geological mapping field trip. Students stayed in a small farm station within their 4 km[superscript 2] field area,…

This article explores the researcher's use of field trips as an experiential learning tool in a social studies methods course as a pilot study. The researchers analyzed course evaluations and student reflection papers using document analysis to determine (a) the positive and negative aspects of utilizing field trips during the course, and (b) the…

This paper presents an experimental research, conducted in the 2016-2017 schoolyear, by ten 5th grade pupils from "Iacob and Ioachim Muresanu" Gymnasium in Rebrisoara, Bistrita-Nasaud County, Romania. Hypothesis: if the 5th grade pupils study the Gersa Valley landscapes directly, following a study guide, through school field trips and…

In 1992, the 7-year-old Community Study Visits program was given a new organizational structure to coordinate its aims with those of three European Community programs: PETRA, FORCE, and EUROTECNET. A cooperative network of representatives of the Member States, the National Liaison Officers, was set up. The success of visits depended on the…