Don't forget the field trip! the professional impact on K-12 teacher preparation and retention

Abstract

Field trips are an evidence-based practice to improve learning in K-12 students. Educator training traditionally includes several evidence-based practices to prepare teachers. While the power and impact of field trips for education and recreational purposes for K-12 students is widely accepted, less understood is the role of field trips for college students preparing to become educators. The current investigation is part of an ongoing multi-year survey exploring the impacts of attending a multiday professional convention for teachers. Online surveys were distributed to participants to measure the influence of a conference attendance field trip on new teacher retention rates, academic performance, and professional networking. Both undergraduate and graduate students were included as participants and responded to Likert-type and open-ended questions. Results indicate a positive impact on teacher retention for current and future educators, higher academic performance while attending university, and increased professional involvement opportunities. Future studies are needed to address the limitations of self-reporting.