The changes I have seen in students from the beginning to the end of the program have been amazing.
Why do you like to share international travel with your students?
Primarily, there are two reasons for this. First, from a “me to them” sort of sharing, it gives me a chance to discuss and explain the importance of understanding the science behind what we do, and the cultural aspects that fit into our global view of the world today. In addition, the vast majority of students will never be able to make the actual trip a part of their life. Sharing pictures, stories, and “adventures” with them in class at least gives them the chance to know how some of the world actually works! At the same time, it recharges my enthusiasm for the experiences in Peru to the point that I become a more effective teacher.
The second reason, and this applies to the chance to actually take students to Peru, is that the experience of travel knows no comparison to just “learning about” a place. The personal exposure to the rainforest, the culture of Peru, the Inca Trail, and the development of so many students into more thoughtful, worldly people knows no bounds. The changes I have seen in many middle school age students from the beginning to the end of the program has been amazing, to say the least!
What do you like about Global Explorers as the organization that you travel with?
Global Explorers has done a magnificent job of developing a well-rounded program for use by teachers. Their constant and immediate support for our groups has been tremendous! From the scheduling of our days “on the road” to the curriculum connections established, GEx has covered it all. The ability of this group to provide a true workshop experience instead of just a tour really is what makes things work. Students and teachers have the chance to surround themselves with the experience, and it allows all participants to reach deep into themselves to find what they most want for themselves.
Purely from an educational standpoint, GEx programs really hit the mark! Curriculum connections in the sciences and the cultural aspects of the trips give the program its credibility. Other travel groups tend to just show you the sights in a tourist fashion, while GEx gives everything the application to classwork back home that is needed. If given the opportunity, the GEx program would be an entire course in many schools by itself. It does a great job of allowing teachers involved to supplement materials and experiences into the classroom that would never be available from other programs.
