Comparison between a real field trip and a virtual field trip in a nature preserve: Knowledge gained in biology and ecology

Abstract

The research presents a case study in the scope of which real and virtual field trips have been compared. The emphasis was on determining the levels of knowledge gain effectiveness in the fields of biology and ecology. A pre-existing natural trail in the protected area of Maribor Island was chosen and digitized for the purposes of the study. During the development of the virtual trail, real fieldwork was simulated in order to ensure a valid comparison. In the spring of 2011, field exercise tests were conducted by means of a study sample consisting of 211 (8th grade) lower secondary school students. The results have generally shown minute differences between the levels of knowledge acquisition effectiveness between both field trips. The results have also led to the conclusion that the students participating in the real field trip were more successful in their performance regarding the exercises they had been assigned, which included real objects serving as tools supporting the students in their observation and investigation endeavours. On the other hand, the students participating in the virtual field trip were more successful with regard to computer assisted exercises, where they were able to access additional information on more complex processes.