TRAVEL EDUCATION
1. Increase Cultural and
Global Awareness:
Children, particularly teenagers,
tend to be self-involved, let's be honest. They're not to blame. It's in their
nature.
Removing students from their
"bubbles" and shaking up their lives a bit by pushing them beyond
their comfort zones can have drastic and beautiful results.
It is difficult for students to
understand others and the world around them when they are not directly
impacted. The teenage brain needs to connect concepts with real-life
experiences.
When students view the world from
a different angle, their worldview is altered. Education through travel allows
them to see the world beyond themselves, which has benefits in its own right,
such as building empathy
2. Gaining Content
Knowledge:
Content knowledge is part of the
"education" in education through travel.
When I travel with students, we
travel with purpose. Because I am a biology teacher, my purpose is usually
environmental in nature, but traveling naturally integrates subjects,
especially when rooted in self-directed project-based learning.
Students that travel with me on
school trips go through seminars and complete several student-directed PBL
projects pertinent to the designated "purpose" prior to the trip.
They
also work on other projects while ON the trip - group and independent -
relevant to the trip purpose. Upon return, each student reflects and shares
their work with a public audience.
The amount of content absorbed is
astounding, and it's all because the concepts are right in front of them. They
are involved. Students are immersed in them. They are actively learning through
experience.
3. Develop a Healthy
Self-Concept:
I know the statement that
education through travel leads to a healthier self-concept is cliche, but it's true, and anyone who
travels knows it to be true.
The phrase "I'm traveling to
find myself" is critical when it comes to kids.
Teenagers
deal with a lot. Getting through the teenage years in one piece requires a
strong, healthy self-concept that can be acquired with traveling. By getting
away from the daily pressures of life, students can ask themselves who they
really are.
This I've seen time and time again. A student travels on a school trip and comes back a changed person with a renewed spirit and ultimate confidence.
They had the unique opportunity
to learn about themselves, discover their skills, dreams, talents, and hopes
through a fresh lens. A true education through travel right there.
4. Develop Critical 21st
Century Skills:
Content is important, but at the
rate society is evolving, having the skills to navigate those changes is
essential.
Careers will look very different
20 years from now. Technology is changing everything. Traveling puts students
in a position to work at those life skills.
If you can, allow students to be
a part of the trip planning process. They practice organization, locating
credible resources, goal-setting, and managing their time.
While on trips students encounter
situations where they need to problem-solve, think critically, work as a team
and get creative.
Adding
project-based learning experiences to the mix adds even more skill-building
opportunities such as communication and collaboration.
5. Build Lifelong
Friendships:
The feeling of belonging is a
basic need. It is something that many people spend a lifetime trying to attain
with little luck.
Feelings of loneliness are
rampant in young people as well as adults. Everyone is a bit vulnerable when
they are traveling. They are away from their homes, their friends, family and
comfort zones.
With group travel, everyone is in
the same boat. My students cast aside their differences on trips and create
bonds that last a lifetime because they are experiencing something new and
profound together.
With education through travel,
only those experiencing the same trip can understand what the other is feeling
in that moment.
6. The Ability to Envision
a Bright Future:
The ability to envision a future
in a positive way is something that educators that work with high-risk
populations will see in their students as an outcome of travel.
Having an education through
travel program at a school with underrepresented students is powerful because
students living in poverty do not have easy access to travel experiences.Travel
is simply not an option.
Many of my students don't look
further than the moment. They don't consider their future careers. Many of them
don't expect to finish high school.
When
traveling, they gain a new perspective on the future. For the first time they
can look ahead and envision something positive. They may not know what yet, but
for the first time they are open to the possibilities.
7. Open Doors of
Opportunity:
Kids, or people in general, need
avenues for learning opportunities and life experiences. The exposure needs to
be there.
In other words, sitting at a desk
in a classroom taking notes or listening to a lecture doesn't set the stage for
deep, meaningful, or life-altering learning experiences. The doors are closed,
figuratively and literally, for potential.
I took students to work on a
ranch for one of my summer high school travel programs. The ranchers were so
impressed by one of my students, that this student was invited back the
following summer to intern, and the summer after that, and after that.
This student ended up working in
agriculture, and as far as I am aware, still does.
Had this student not come on the
trip he wouldn't have met the ranchers and scored the internships.
That wouldn't have been because
he wasn't good enough. It would have been because the opportunity wouldn't have
presented itself any other way.
Education
through travel opens doors that sitting in a classroom just doesn't.
Traveling Is The Best Form of
Education:- as below mentioned
1. You learn languages.
English is spoken in almost all
parts of the world and it will work for you mostly. Nevertheless, it’s always
better to learn the native language of the place you’re going to visit. In a
way, travel forces you to learn languages.
After learning the basics through
books, apps or videos, you can stretch your skills when you speak with the
actual native speakers. By putting your language education into use, traveling
mostly develops your listening and speaking capabilities.
Even when you have already
studied a language, traveling is the best way to master that language. When you
travel, you don’t just test your language skills in a real world scenario but
also learn things like accent, intonation and slang in the most practical way.
2. You learn about other
cultures.
Not just traveling to a foreign
country but also to the different parts of your own country is the best way to
discern what it’s all about. You better understand how the cultures around the
world vary and where the common ground lies.
Differences exist in cuisines,
etiquettes and lifestyle across different cultures. But in spite of the
differences, you can find so many commonalities like shared love for art,
nature and ancestors that bind all the different cultures together.
Education is not just about
learning things to make our living but also contributing towards making it a
better place to live in. The understanding of diverse cultures plays a vital
role in your education.
3. You learn history.
You studied about the
civilizations and major historical events in your history class. All that was
really cool. But nothing beats traveling to historic landmarks and exploring
your way around a city’s history and culture.
When you stroll through the
streets and visit museums, palaces and galleries, the entire nation’s history
comes out right in front of you. Learning about different dynasties, conflicts
and changes is so much easier when you actually explore a nation.
Most often, what we learn about
history through text books is deviated from reality. Entering into a dialogue
with the locals you understand history in a more accurate way or at least it
provides with you with a whole different perspective.
4. You learn about today’s
world.
Travel teaches you not just about
the world as it was in the past but also as it is today. It’s probably the best
way to truly understand the political situation, economic scenario and social
structure of the world we are living in today.
Our views about distant people
and cultures are often influenced by what we are fed through the media.
Traveling is a way to learn about them for real and not through the eyes
of the media, which are often biased and
prejudiced.
When you begin to travel often,
you fully begin to understand the underlying reasons behind why the societies
of different areas are shaped in a particular way and differ from the societies
in other places.
5. You learn about nature.
When you move out of your comfort
zone of the concrete jungle and begin to explore the most exotic natural
wonders of the world, you will begin to realize the colossal majesty of nature.
Understanding the grandeur of
nature is essential to solving most of the issues of the world today such as
climate change, air pollution and global warming. When we fully realize what we
are going to lose with our conduct, then solving these issues will be much
easier.
So better than spending all the
funds in organizing seminars and conferences,. It would suit you better to send
the people backpacking to the most exotic mountains, lakes, forests and plains
of the world.
6. You learn to do new things.
Traveling will test you in each
and every step you take. As you’re exploring your way into the unknown,
traveling naturally forces you to do so many things which you wouldn’t have
done otherwise.
Whether it be while learning to
pet the elephants in Cambodia, mountaineering through the snowclad mountains in
Nepal or dancing Samba in Brazil, you will experience plenty of new things
during your travels.
Traveling is in fact a way of
learning to learn. You are out of your comfort zone and so you must learn to be
able to adapt to a new learning environment in a very short time. It also helps
in your overall learning as well.
7. You learn social skills.
You may be little shy and find it
difficult to engage yourself socially. But traveling will change that as things
like talking to complete strangers or asking them for favor is not an option
but a necessity during travels.
If you are thinking of some
personal development courses, you don’t need to do so. Travel your way to a
wonderful place somewhere and if possible, on your own. You’ll grow much better
than through such courses.
Lack of skills in conversation,
presentation and public speaking often limit opportunities for us. Most of us
find it difficult to master them how hard we try. If you’re facing difficulty
with them, traveling will make your situation much easier.
8. You learn to be
independent.
If you have spent your life being
reactive, reacting to the circumstances placed upon you and you want to change
that and haven’t been able to do so, traveling will teach you to be proactive
and control your own fate by yourself.
Traveling forces one to be
independent. This is even more the case when you travel on your own. There’s no
choice but to make decisions and take initiatives completely by yourself as you
don’t have anyone to tell you what to do nor anyone you can outsource the task
too.
Independence is a fundamental
goal of education. The focus of what we refer to as traditional education may
be on financial independence but traveling will also teach you to be
independent intellectually and emotionally.
9. You learn compassion for
the lives of others.
When you travel extensively, you
begin to realize that in spite of all the differences, we all are same
somewhere deep down in our hearts. All your prejudices based on race, color and
nationality will subside.
You can’t truly hate anyone when
you know what they have been through and why they behaved in a certain way in
the first place. And when you travel, you have a better understanding of people
and their actions.
6 essential ways travel
promotes learning and education
1. It broadens your horizons
through cultural immersion
Nothing compares to the
experience of being fully immersed in a country and its culture.
International travel should be
about more than tourism and site-seeing. A trip abroad is an opportunity to
witness and participate in life in another country; to connect with local
people and learn about the ways in which they experience the world. Thus, when
you travel, the world becomes about more than you or your country of origin.
When I travel to a new country or
place, I like to give myself time to truly dive into the layers that constitute
history, language, belief systems, and everyday life. There is much to be
learned by venturing outside the classroom.
2. It motivates you to
participate on a local level
Whether visiting the great
pyramids and astounding temple complexes of Egypt, strolling the streets of
Paris, or adventuring in the Brazilian Amazon, a trip abroad asks you to
participate. When you experience distant people and cultures firsthand, you'll
naturally feel more inclined to engage.
Whether it's by practicing the
local language or simply observing your surroundings, travel leads to a more
open and global-minded viewpoint where you understand how people and places are
interconnected. Immersing yourself in different cultures will help you adopt a
sense of empathy for others who live differently than you.
As you learn about other
political, economic, and social structures, you'll become more motivated to
participate on a local level. Opportunities for participation are boundless and
range from volunteer efforts and work exchanges to language groups and eco
programs and home-stays with host families. Participating in a country's daily
rhythms is an educational experience rich in hands-on and active learning, and
demands that you step out of your comfort zone and lead with curiosity and an
open mind.
3. It challenges you to grow
Traveling will make you more
adaptable. Leaving your comfort zone helps you become more independent,
responsible and confident. You'll become better at thinking on your feet, and
you'll be a better problem solver, planner, negotiator, and more. My time spent
volunteering, working and living in other countries has allowed me to discover
strengths, skills, and passions that otherwise may have remained hidden.
While traveling tends to be seen
for its glamorous side, the reality is often far from. Life on the road has its
own challenges and quickly breaks down the superfluous and extravagant to the
essential — patience, an open mind, tolerance, resilience.
Beyond the discovery of new
places and breathtaking sights and monuments is the discovery of self, of the
layers and fabric you are made of, and what it means to be true to yourself and
live well.
Regardless if you are in your own
country or abroad, it's easy to connect when we focus on the things we share.
Every country has something to offer and teach you.
One of my guiding intentions as
an international full-time traveler is to give every country a chance. More
often than not, this means being a witness to the positivity of misunderstood
and negatively perceived places, and finding a way to learn and connect with
people in spite of dissimilar beliefs or attitudes.
Differences exist in lifestyle
and etiquettes across cultures, and part of the experience of traveling is
finding the commonalities and being humble enough to acknowledge and appreciate
the differences as much as the similarities.
Connecting with people in
different places around the globe provides you with a whole new perspective and
insight about a culture or way of life that previously may have seemed too
foreign or alien to understand. It's humbling and eye-opening to see how others
live.
Nothing beats the feeling of
breaking a preconceived stereotype or seeing past the influence and bias of
media and connecting with a country and its people in real time. When you
travel abroad, you gain a better understanding of people and their actions. It
is inspiring to listen to the stories of people around the world, and this
human connection can help you become a more compassionate and empathetic
person.
Over time, these cross-cultural
experiences pull you out of your cultural bubble and help you empathize and
connect with people from backgrounds different than your own.
4. It promotes a deeper sense
of understanding
Travel not only teaches you about
the world as it is today, but also about the history behind the current
complexities of social, political, and economic structures.
Everyone studies history in
school, but traveling brings history to life. In addition to seeing some of the
world's greatest monuments and museums, you also feel the energy of the people
and countries you visit.
What was once a standard school
history lesson becomes an ongoing process of experiential learning; you become
absorbed by the play of life happening in front of and all around you, and
begin to understand the underlying reasons and forces behind why societies and
cultures are shaped in a particular way and differ from one another.
The more you travel and engage,
your understanding of history grows, and your understanding of the world
broadens. Ultimately, this understanding extends inward as well; you learn
about yourself and your true potential and become better equipped to be proactive
about your goals and dreams.
You feel that you belong to many
places, and your sense of "home" expands.
5. It builds community
From cultural immersion to
participation to discovery to connection to understanding, travel builds and
strengthens community. Whether you go somewhere as part of a university
exchange program via student travel or join a volunteer effort, whether you travel
solo or go on a weekend trip and end up bonding with a local over shared
cuisine or an activity, your idea of community grows.
I used to think of my community
as exclusive to my home, or the place I physically inhabit, but my
understanding has evolved to include my global community, the people and
efforts that exist beyond my own borders. Community is greater than something
physical, something tangible; it is created, sustained, and amplified by
connection, participation, and understanding.
Traveling — if done with the
right intention — can lead to a deeper understanding of global dynamics and
power structures, and a heightened sense of responsibility to the greater
community.
Seeing yourself as part of the
global community is essential to remembering that we are all connected, we are
all in so many ways more similar than we are different. The mark of a global
citizen is acceptance, tolerance and appreciation, and above all, an awareness
of the ways in which countries and people are interconnected and part of an
emerging powerful and dynamic world community.
6. It leads to empowerment
The more you travel and expand
your worldview, the more you are empowered to embody your authentic self and
take action that supports sustainable global development and a collaborative
world community.
You become more independent, and
cultivate a propensity for self-study and self-improvement. The skills gained
through travel experiences are more than worth the effort, and have an impact
that reaches beyond life and community as you once knew it.
Travel is The Best
Education
Embarking on a journey is more
than just visiting new places; it’s an unparalleled form of education that
extends beyond the confines of a classroom. From experiencing different
cultures to navigating unfamiliar terrains, travel enriches the mind, broadens
perspectives, and fosters personal growth in ways traditional education cannot.
In this article, we delve into 12 reasons why travel stands as the epitome of
education, offering invaluable lessons that shape individuals for a lifetime of
learning and understanding. So, fasten your seatbelt and prepare for a journey
of enlightenment as we explore the transformative power of travel.
1.Cultural immersion:
Travel allows you to explore different cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
2.Historical exploration:
Visiting historical sites and architecture around the world provides a unique
perspective on the past, deepening your understanding of world history.
3.Language acquisition:
Being in a foreign country offers an opportunity to practice and improve
language skills in real life situations by communicating with locals.
4.Personal growth:
Travelling can push you out of your comfort zone and encourages personal
growth. Travel allows you to learn more about yourself—strengths, weaknesses,
preferences, and passions.
5.Environmental awareness:
Exploring from mountains to beaches to forests to deserts, provides an
experience to understand the different ecosystems around the world and
encourages sustainable practices.
6.Social skills:
Interacting with people from different backgrounds enhances social skills,
interpersonal skills and builds international friendships.
7.Art and architecture
appreciation: Visiting museums and art galleries provides an opportunity to
appreciate and learn about historic artifacts and artistic expressions from
different cultures and civilizations.
8.Global perspective:
Travel broadens your worldview, exposing you to different socioeconomic
conditions and political systems, helping you to understand global issues and
appreciate diversity.
9.Culinary exploration:
Sampling local cuisine introduces you to new flavours and culinary traditions,
expanding your palate.
10.Empathy and compassion:
Experiencing different cultures and lifestyles allows you to witness firsthand
challenges and daily realities. This can help you develop cultural sensitivity
and empathy.
11.Problem-solving:
Navigating unfamiliar environments and situations hones your problem-solving
abilities.
12.Memory formation: The
unique experiences and memories created while travelling are more likely to be
retained and recalled, enhancing long-term learning.
TRAVEL and EDUCATION Inter-related
Skills:-
1. Learn About Other Cultures
Travelling will teach you about
different cultures. Open your mind to other people's beliefs and traditions;
this will help you to find common ground between you and what others believe
in.
It’s exciting finding out about
the different ways of life, etiquette, and even local cuisine. You’re bound to
discover interests and common ground within your culture. Learning to
understand others and respecting their values is a valuable life lesson everyone
should know.
2. Become a History Buff
Sure, you can learn about
historic events and historic sites in school, but nothing will beat seeing the
landmarks for yourself. Reading about a place or events in a textbook is
nothing compared to walking in the footsteps of the forefathers, and seeing the
whole story unfold right in front of you.
Traveling will open your mind to
an alternative point of view; hearing about historical events from a different
perspective, even from those who are thought to be the opposing side.
3. Keep up to Date
At school, you likely learned
about history and were not taught about the future or subjects involving
forward-thinking.
We are strongly influenced by
what we learn in school, and we’re taught to think in a certain way and accept
things as they present. By traveling, you'll see things first hand and witness
life for yourself and even be at the forefront of change.
4. Learn a Language
By exploring the world, you’ll
expand your speaking and listening capabilities. The best way to learn a
language is to fully submerge yourself in the country and surround yourself
with locals who will help you master the local dialect.
Living like a local to learn a
language is so much better than what you can learn in the classroom.
5. Embrace Independence
If you’ve decided to take the
plunge and travel alone, you will very quickly learn to be much more
independent.
Your usual safety net won't be
there to book your hostel or find your lost luggage. Therefore you have to take
the initiative and control your fate—and in doing this, you grow as a person.
6. Be Compassionate
Travelling teaches compassion by
mixing with different races, cultures, and religions; you can see others point
of view and often this can challenge your way of thinking and helps to promote
understanding.
Embrace traveling—and by doing
this, you will meet so many interesting people that the world begins to feel
like home.
7. Take in Nature
Once you’ve started traveling and
are no longer in your hometown, you’ll begin to learn about the natural wonders
of the world.
Discover animals, plants, and
sites that will seem so exotic to someone who has lived their life through a
screen. You may not like what you find as you educate yourself on critical
issues in the world, such as global warming, deforestation, and pollution of
the seas.
8. The unknown and unexpected
Every step you take, you’ll be
learning...and it won't always be what you expect. Chances are, you will have
to deal with and do new things and new experiences that you would never have
learnt in school—that’s a good thing!
By always being on the move, you
will adapt and learn how things work wherever you are in the world.
9. Develop your Social Skills
Traveling means you won't be able
to avoid talking to people. Inevitably, you’ll develop your social skills with
all the face to face interaction you will experience.
You’ll soon forget about all
those speeches and presentations that limited you so much in school; you can
just be you—and that’s a fabulous feeling.
10. Self-Growth
The most important lesson you’ll
learn is about yourself. Traveling teaches you so many things. By pushing
yourself further than you could have ever imagined, you will return home
feeling capable of anything and ready to take on whatever life throws at you.
There's little doubt that travel
is the most significant educator in life. Why not take the plunge and get on
the next flight out...and be ready to learn!
No comments:
Post a Comment