Virtual Field Trip to Hershey Park: A Sweet Educational Adventure

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A virtual field trip to Hershey Park offers an immersive educational experience combining elements from Hershey Gardens and Hersheypark. Students can explore the Butterfly Atrium, learn about horticulture, discover STEM principles behind roller coasters, and engage with wildlife from ZooAmerica. This digital journey provides interactive sessions with experts, live Q&As, and virtual tours, making it an accessible and engaging alternative to physical visits.

A virtual field trip to Hershey Park is an innovative educational experience that combines elements from Hershey Gardens and Hersheypark. It offers students the opportunity to explore various attractions, learn about nature, science, and chocolate-making, all from the comfort of their classrooms or homes. This digital journey provides a unique blend of entertainment and education, making it an excellent alternative to physical visits.

What Are the Main Educational Objectives of This Virtual Trip?

virtual field trip to hershey park
Image ‘File:HersheyParkTrain0355.JPG’ by GK tramrunner229, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The virtual field trip to Hershey Park aims to achieve several educational objectives:

  1. Understand butterfly anatomy and metamorphosis
  2. Learn about horticulture and plant germination
  3. Explore principles of physics and engineering related to roller coasters
  4. Discover North American wildlife and conservation efforts
  5. Gain insights into marine life and their habitats

How Does the Virtual Tour of Hershey Gardens Work?

virtual field trip to hershey park
Image ‘File:12 20 2014 Wave Spinner at Hershey Park 02.jpg’ by Jrosenberry1, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The virtual tour of Hershey Gardens includes several engaging activities:

  1. Amazing Butterflies: A live tour of the Butterfly Atrium, including:
  2. Exploration of the BugZone
  3. Lessons on butterfly anatomy

  4. Understanding the metamorphosis process

  5. Green Thumbs: A virtual tour of the “Many Hands Children’s Garden” featuring:

  6. Interactions with horticulturalists
  7. Optional classroom pack for planting seeds

  8. Lessons on plant germination

  9. Guided Customized Tour: Live interviews with staff, covering topics such as:

  10. Butterfly care and conservation
  11. Cacao and chocolate production
  12. Customized content to fit various curriculum needs

What Hersheypark Elements Are Adapted for the Virtual Experience?

While Hersheypark itself doesn’t offer official virtual field trips, several elements can be adapted for a virtual context:

  1. STEM & Physics Day:
  2. Live-streamed or pre-recorded Physics Quiz Show

  3. Presentations on roller coaster design and engineering

  4. ZooAmerica Activities:

  5. Interactive learning activities
  6. Live-streamed animal feedings

  7. Virtual “Are You Smarter Than a Zookeeper?” game show

  8. Aquatheatre Show:

  9. Live or pre-recorded sessions featuring sea lions and seals
  10. Q&A sessions with marine life experts

How Can Educators Plan for This Virtual Field Trip?

To plan an effective virtual field trip to Hershey Park, educators should consider the following:

Technology Requirements:

  • Reliable internet connection
  • Video conferencing software (e.g., Google Meet, Zoom)
  • Devices with cameras and microphones

Scheduling Recommendations:

  1. Plan for 30-40 minute sessions during regular class periods
  2. Coordinate with content providers in advance
  3. Test all necessary technology before the session

Cost Considerations:

  • Hershey Gardens virtual programs: $85 for the first class, $70 for each additional class
  • Potential scholarships for financially challenged school districts

Tips for Maximizing Student Engagement:

  1. Encourage active participation in Q&A sessions
  2. Utilize interactive elements like virtual quizzes
  3. Prepare pre-session activities or handouts
  4. Follow up with discussions or assignments to reinforce learning

What Challenges Might Arise During the Virtual Field Trip?

While virtual field trips offer many benefits, they may present some challenges:

  1. Technical Issues:
  2. Internet connectivity problems
  3. Audio or video delays

Solution: Test technology in advance and have a backup plan.

  1. Accessibility Concerns:
  2. Students with disabilities may face challenges with interactive elements

Solution: Ensure closed captions are available and provide alternative activities.

  1. Limited Interactivity:
  2. Compared to in-person visits, virtual trips may feel less immersive

Solution: Use a variety of interactive elements and encourage student participation through Q&A and virtual activities.

How Can Students Make the Most of Their Virtual Hershey Park Experience?

To maximize the benefits of the virtual field trip to Hershey Park, students can:

  1. Prepare questions in advance for Q&A sessions
  2. Actively participate in interactive elements like virtual quizzes
  3. Take notes during presentations and tours
  4. Engage in post-trip discussions and assignments
  5. Explore additional resources provided by Hershey Gardens or Hersheypark

By following these suggestions, students can ensure a rich and rewarding virtual field trip experience, gaining valuable knowledge about nature, science, and the world of Hershey’s chocolate.

References:
1. https://www.hersheygardens.org/virtual-programs/
2. https://www.hersheypark.com/groups/education-days.php
3. https://www.chocolateworld.com/plan-your-visit/virtual-tour.html

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