Context
Field trips are great for experiential learning as they give authentic learning experiences for our students to connect with people and places first hand. But planning for a field trip is not easy task as much needs to be taken into consideration. Hence, any strategies that could help cut down time and add precision into the planning process will be helpful for all teachers. Using a lesser known function ‘Create a Custom Route’ in Maps on iOS, this can be done simply and visually.
Preparation and Flow
To prepare for this, teacher will to have the objective of the field trip clearly identified so as to find a suitable area to fulfil them. For example, it could a be field trip to visit various places of worship in Singapore Chinatown so to understand the origin of Singapore multiculturalism.
1. Open Maps on an iOS device.
2. Identify the first checkpoint and type it in the search button. Select walking option as it will give you the estimated walking time and distance.
3. Select the ‘Create a Custom Route’ function and start clicking on the suggested places to be included on the field trip. Map will in plot out the most viable walking route, direction and estimated time needed. You may even select the ’Close loop’ option so the trip could start and end at the same point. It will also describe the terrain type for your consideration. Click on the binoculars icon to see the street view so to give a more accurate street image.
4. This process helps cut down planning time and is helpful when evaluating the viability of the field trip before you conduct a recce.
Possible Extension
The option to plan a route can be used by anyone. We could also ask students to use this option to plan a route to examine the food and beverage industry in and around Clarke Quay. Students can then share with each other other walking trails they have created to better explore the characteristics of land use.
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