An Experimental Evaluation of Culturally Enriching Field Trips
Heidi H. Erickson, Angela R. Watson, Jay P. Greene
Abstract
We present results from a longitudinal experiment on academic and social-emotional effects of culturally enriching field trips. We randomly assign fourth and fifth grade students to attend field trips throughout the year or to serve as a control. Treatment students express greater tolerance for people with different opinions and an increased desire to consume arts. Additionally, treatment students have fewer behavioral infractions, attend school more frequently, score higher on end-of-grade exams, and receive higher course grades. Effects are strongest when students enter middle school. We find no effect on students& empathy, social perspective taking, or desire to participate in arts.
Topics & Concepts
TRIPS architectureEmpathyPsychologyPerspective (graphical)The artsField (mathematics)Social psychologyDevelopmental psychologyMedical educationMathematics educationPolitical scienceMedicineEngineeringComputer scienceTransport engineeringArtificial intelligenceMathematicsPure mathematicsLawDiverse Educational Innovations StudiesSchool Choice and PerformanceInnovative Teaching Methodologies in Social Sciences