Virtual Tours

Virtual tours are a way for students to escape the typical constraints of a classroom without physically moving anywhere. A virtual tour is a simulation of a place or thing that already exists, and it is usually done using a series of video clips or pictures. Instead of taking a traditional style field trip, students can enjoy a similar experience sitting in front of a computer. Virtual tours are a tool that can be used in many different ways.
Virtual tours have a host of applications for teachers. I plan to use virtual tours to replace field trips that are either too far away or not feasible for some other reason. Students might find new interests by taking a virtual tour, which could spur them towards greater learning. Once students understand virtual tours, each student could find a virtual tour to share with the class. this way, students are exposed to a host of experiences that are interesting to both the student and his or her peers. Virtual tours cannot replace field trips entirely, but they are an apt substitute when necessary.
One benefit of virtual tours is that they can be used when a field trip is not a viable option. Perhaps the field trip is too expensive to fund or too far away. Virtual tours are invaluable when studying things like stars or cells because a virtual tour can take students places that would otherwise be impossible. For example, students can take a trip to the sun, the moon, or inside a cell, or the human body by using a virtual tour. None of these are places a student can actually visit, so a virtual tour is quite beneficial. Additionally, if a field trip to a certain location might be potentially dangerous a virtual tour can stand in place of a normal field trip. One drawback of virtual tours is that they cannot replace traditional field trips. Traditional field trips give students a unique hands-on experience. Actually visiting a certain locale gives students a point of reference they will not gain from a virtual tour. Additionally, virtual tours downplay the size and scale that gives certain places the prestige and recognition they deserve. Overall, virtual tours are an adequate substitute for traditional field trips whenever necessary.