Youth Travel Planner 2023 - 8

" What has changed is that itineraries
Immersive Learning
Parents see educational travel as a remedy
for pandemic-related learning setbacks and
as an opportunity for their children to create
memories with peers. " We were really interested
to learn that parents are prioritizing
immersive learning experiences as equally
important to in-classroom learning, " says
Adam Bickelman, vice president, public relations
at EF Education First in Boston. " Experiential
learning-actively encouraging students
to learn about themselves, the world,
and their place in it-imparts important
'essential skills' like global dexterity, critical
thinking, and resilience. "
are providing groups more time at specific
sites to enhance the student experience, "
Assante notes. Group leaders are best served
by focusing on quality over quantity. " Timed
entries at some of the most popular sites has
improved crowd control but has changed the
environment by breaking larger groups into
smaller groups or rotating students in and
out of activities, " she says. Groups will need to
increase the number of chaperones to provide
appropriate supervision. It is vital that chaperones
be trained in their role of helping students
to be curious, compassionate citizens.
Tour planners and attraction managers
can appeal to group leaders by focusing on
how a particular activity makes learning
hands-on. Interactive workshops in which
student groups participate in activities
related to the theme can be more impactful
than just crossing off the list of " must-see "
museums, institutions, and landmarks. For
example, in London this summer, my students
participated in an acting workshop at
Shakespeare's Globe theater. This deepened
their appreciation of attending the musical
" Wicked " the next evening.
Opportunities for student groups to engage
From above: Cooking
class and pottery class
in Panama, EF Tours
with the local community through authentic
experiences can foster active learning. " With
the increase in awareness about sustainability
and inclusivity, we are seeing more
focus on providing deeper, more interesting
PRO TIPS
Find ways to embed
reflection. Provide time
for students to capture
and share their impressions
about their experiences
through journals,
vlogs, or artwork that
captures their stories.
Reflection helps cement
learning and provides
an outlet for students
to think critically about
their experiences.
Be inspired by your
school's mission and
vision. How does a
particular trip advance
your school's mission?
How does it advance
aspects of the curriculum?
How might a
particular trip generate
excitement about some
aspect of your school's
strategic plan?
Celebrate your story!
Showcases for musical
ensembles can be
powerful opportunities
for schools to generate
interest in a program
and enhance the
school's reputation.
8 YOUTH TRAVEL PLANNER 2023-24
ILLUSTRATION ADOBE/KANNAPAT PHOTOS EF TOURS
Youth Travel Planner 2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Youth Travel Planner 2023
