In today’s world of instant technology, the idea of taking your students on a museum trip may be challenging. Learners from this generation have shockingly short attention spans and, they are likely to lack prior knowledge related to the exhibits, as teachers we may be worried that they will quickly get bored and lose their attention.
However, the reluctance of many parents and educators to take students to museums may be largely unwarranted. Indeed, many students enjoy a day away from the school, and the educational benefits of museum-going are unarguable. Museums encourage students to gain and practice their critical thinking skills. An art museum, for example, will help develop their critical thinking skills in relation to artistic styles, techniques, and subjects. Museums spark curiosity and visiting a museum represents the perfect opportunity for students to ask questions about new subjects that they are curious about and to satisfy their innately curious minds. As far as it goes, finding answers to questions is a marvellous way for learners to learn and experience the value in asking questions.
Museums offer historical lessons not taught in schools; many schools try to offer a curriculum based on the real side of history that spans a range of eras and geographies, it would be impossible to teach lessons that covered the entire history of people and the world. Museums encourage creativity; most museums have exhibits designed specifically for learners, encouraging interactivity and creative activities for them to get involved with. Taking photos is an essential part of the experience, which means your learners will have a chance to have plenty of memories of the day, which fosters a positive memory they’ll treasure forever.
