5 Tools to Create Virtual Field Trips
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Interested in trying a virtual field trip with your students? Check out 5 tools to create virtual field trips, pros/cons to each one, things to consider when picking a tool, and of course, my recommendation! Virtual field trips don’t have to be complicated, so let’s talk through step one together – picking which platform to use!
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5 Tools to Create Virtual Field Trips
Here are some options:
- Google Slides
- PowerPoint
- Google My Maps
- Google Earth
- Thinglink
Each of these tools have their pros and cons, and there are a few things to consider, so let’s talk about them a little more.
Choosing the Best Tool for your Virtual Field Trip
Now that we’ve talked about those tools, let’s talk about how to pick the best tool for your classroom. Here are some things to consider:
- Student device capabilities
- District allowed access
- Cost
- Ease of use for you
When you consider each of these categories, everyone will have their own favorites for tools. For example, if you’re a Microsoft school district, you’re more likely to use Powerpoint than any of the Google tools I have listed!
Another thing to consider is that if your district doesn’t even allow access to tool, you probably won’t choose it. If you have to fund it out of your own pocket, you might choose a free option instead. And, finally, if you’re feeling a lot of tech overwhelm, it’s probably best to stick with a tool you’re familiar with, over a brand new site to learn!
The Best Tool for Creating Virtual Field Trips
Like I said, everyone will have their own favorites. My personal pick every time is Google My Maps! This is because it’s free, easy to use, within the Google Suite, and has a little more *wow* factor than Google Slides, which we tend to use almost daily. It’s also not so fancy that the student devices can’t keep up with it, which is something I’ve experienced with Google Earth.
Example Virtual Field Trip Using Google My Maps
If you’d like to grab a free virtual field trip to use with your Spanish classes, sign up below to grab a trip to the Dominican Republic!
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