Virtual Field Trips
Answers To Your
Frequently Asked Questions...

What is a virtual field trip?

A virtual field trip uses interactive television (ITV) that allows people at two or more locations to see and hear each other. This gives you and your students an opportunity to visit places like NASA, the San Diego Zoo and the U.S. House of Representatives without leaving the classroom. For more information visit our "About Virtual Field Trips" page.

Where are the ITV sites?

Every high school in COOR ISD and the AMA ESD has a site. Additionally, there are sites at Kirtland Community College and at the offices of the AMA ESD (Alpena) and COOR ISD (Roscommon). Visit our ITV Room Locations page to find out where yours is located.

How much does it cost?

Many quality sites (such as NASA) are free! Also, this year (2001-2002), there are grants to cover the cost of social studies related field trips. In addition, NMEC pays for the connection charges. We deliberately left line fee prices out of our guide so it will not be a consideration to you.

How do I sign up?

First, pick a virtual field trip using this website, the catalog, or after discussing choices with The Virtual Travel Agency. Second, visit the field trip’s website for more information and available materials. Then, complete the VFT Request Form and call The Virtual Travel Agency with the information. Finally, give the completed form to the scheduler in your district to set the field trip up. The scheduler will contact you with the confirmed plans. That’s it!

How do I prepare my students?

Virtual field trips should obviously fit into your unit of study. Many sites will have teacher’s guides, learning materials and even before and after activities for your students. Check the “Notes” section of the catalog or visit the website for your field trip for further information. Behavior, discipline and supervision of your students are your responsibility as their teacher. Your District Scheduler will share with you the rules of the Northern Michigan Electronics Consortium (NMEC). Recording the field trip is at the discretion of the remote site. There are copyright issues involved, even for the remote site. Use our VFT guidelines page for more information.

Where can I learn more?

1. Attend an ITV training session like the one sponsored last June at COOR ISD and AMA. Teachers learned how to use the equipment in the ITV rooms, blend the technology with their lessons, plan activities for multiple sites, and how to interact with remote sites! Look for future sessions posted on our web site at: http://www.nmec.tv. Or call Gary Goren (AMA) at (989) 354-3101 or Jim Haf (COOR) at (989) 275-9562 or ATM 200-7262 for individualized training options.
2. Attend Virtual Field Trip "Movie Night" programs available via interactive television as a part of your building’s in-service.
3. Call The Virtual Travel Agency and speak to Teri, your Virtual Travel Agent.
4. Or search TWICE or CILC's online searchable databases.