Field Trips--Learning from Experts
At HFCA, we understand the power of experiencing things first-hand and from primary resources. Field trips offer many benefits that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting, providing students with unique opportunities to learn directly from experts in various fields. When students visit museums, science centers, historical sites, performing arts venues, and nature reserves, they often have the chance to interact with professionals who are passionate about their subjects. These experts can provide insights and knowledge that are not easily accessible through textbooks or lectures, offering students a deeper understanding of the material.
Benefits of learning from experts include:
Learning in the real world
Field trips provide students with direct access to real-world environments and tools they might not otherwise have access to. They help students see how what they learn in the classroom applies to authentic issues.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
Engaging with experts encourages students to ask questions, make observations, and draw conclusions, solidifying concepts and theories that may seem abstract in a classroom setting.
Broaden horizons
Exposure to diverse cultures, histories, and ecosystems during field trips cultivates empathy and a greater appreciation for the world, encouraging students to become informed and responsible global citizens.
Nurture creativity and curiosity
Field trips help students ignite their curiosity and stimulate their creativity. They also inspire a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Outdoor Education
An important component of HFCA's many enriching field trips is our overnight outdoor education experiences. HFCA is committed to developing the whole child and expanding learning outside the classroom--literally and figuratively. In addition to our nationally recognized outdoor classroom, fifth through seventh grade students can participate in overnight outdoor education experiences.
There are so many benefits of being unplugged and experiencing the wonder of God’s creation. In addition to enhancing our science curriculum, each trip creates a supportive environment where students can bond with both teachers and other students by focusing on team-building skills.
- Fifth and sixth grade students visit the White Pines Forest State Park, where they experience multidisciplinary activities by interacting with the natural world. During this 3-day, 2-night trip, students participate in supplementary activities that support our HFCA science curriculum. Included in these activities are orienteering and the usage of GPS technology, a simulation of the food energy cycle, an exploration of the rock and minerals, and wilderness survival.
- Seventh grade students visit Timber-lee Christian Camp in East Troy, Wisconsin, where they experience many challenging activities that test their knowledge and understanding of the earth, life and physical sciences while also strengthening team-building skills. During their 3-day, 2-night stay, students participate in zip-lining while also analyzing speed and velocity as affected by weight, attend classes on energy through a hands-on Energy Workshop, and explore the unique characteristics of various reptiles and mammals during Animal Encounters. Students also explore math and physics concepts by engaging in archery, a high ropes course, and rock climbing.