The Disadvantages of Field Trips

A field trip is an activity where students venture outside of the classroom to partake in hands-on learning experiences that relate directly to the grade's curriculum. There are many advantages to field trips, including the opportunity for students to have first-hand experiences with the subject matter that they have learned in class. However, there are also disadvantages that should be considered before planning begins.

A large amount of preparation is associated with planning a field trip. Collection of consent forms, waivers and money is normally done by the teacher and adds to an already-packed to-do list. Additionally, teachers are usually responsible for recruiting parent volunteers and making transportation arrangements.

Although field trips are sometimes subsidized by the school, there is often an expense associated with the activity that is the responsibility of the student's family. The reality is that there are families that can barely afford to send a healthy lunch to school with their children, never mind pay for a field trip. This can be an awkward and uncomfortable situation for both student and teacher.

With the rising price of gasoline, transporting students to a field trip destination can be costly for the school. This generally reduces the amount of field trips that are available to students throughout the year.

Field trips can be stressful for teachers, and one of the reasons is the medical risk. Medical kits must be carried for all of the special needs within a classroom, including diabetic students and students with allergies. Also, there must be someone along that is trained to administer medication, such as an EpiPen, if required.