Western New York Distance Learning Consortium
Virtual Field Trips – Resources for the Classroom
Video Conferencing equipment along with traditional distance learning rooms has
opened the door to new learning experiences for students and new instruction
resources for teachers. The question often asked is where do we begin. The
first contact should be your BOCES distance learning coordinator. These
contacts are listed at the end of this document.
The next step is what types of events are available as video conferences or
virtual field trips. First, the web addresses of two instructionally rich virtual field
trip databases are included. The list here may seem endless. To help your
school explore some options of virtual field trip providers already utilized by other
local schools, a list of thirteen virtual field trip provides is attached. The
information included is directly from the virtual field trip provider.
….Prices may have changed….
Virtual Field Trip Databases
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http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/vidconf/directory.cfm
Looking for program providers or simply interested in connecting with another
classroom? The SBC Videoconferencing Directory is a free, searchable database
of videoconferencing sites of interest to K-12 school, community college, and
public library communities. Our directory includes contacts, program descriptions,
and equipment information for over 1219 sites.
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http://www.cilc.org/
The Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) improves
communication, collaboration, and learning by providing expertise in
videoconferencing, thereby helping organizations achieve goals and maximize
results. A nonprofit organization, CILC works with clients to plan, implement, and
manage the successful integration of technology. In addition, consultants help
clients develop educational and professional development programming, as well
as community partnerships, all relying on videoconferencing.
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Drawing from 11 years of experience, CILC's process of planning, implementing,
and integrating videoconferencing helps insure that your organization can
maximize the technology to achieve the utmost benefits.
Virtual Field Trip Providers
 Columbus Zoo - Distance Learning at the Columbus Zoo and
Aquarium is full for the 2005-2006 school year. Programming for the
2006-2007 school year will open on June 1.
http://www.colszoo.org/education/dist_learn.htm
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium broadcasts videoconferencing programs
directly from animal exhibits, and incorporates a variety of hands-on activities
into every class.
Each teacher will receive a packet containing information and materials for their
session(s), as well as ideas for pre- and post-visit activities when they schedule a
program.
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You Must have access to two-way audio/video teleconferencing equipment
that runs at a speed of 384 kbps (ISDN) or higher. The Zoo cannot currently
connect though IP technology.
40-minute program
$100 per session
Call (614) 724-3578 or email distance.learning@columbuszoo.org for
reservations.
Rate increase – Programs will now cost $120 per session starting July 1, 2006.
 Louisville Science Center
http://www.louisvillescience.org/programs_distance.shtml
Wave Watch - Grades 2-12
Discover the waves around you - light waves, sound waves, water
waves, infrared waves and electromagnetic waves - as we
explore the science and properties of each and their roles in our
daily lives.
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Scheduling information
Dates and times of Distance Learning programs are scheduled by request. Costs
are $100 for in-state links, $175 for out-of-state links and $250 for customized
links. A purchase order number or credit card payment method (Visa,
MasterCard, American Express) is required for scheduling. For details, call our
School Services Coordinator at (502) 561-6100, ext. 6143 or (800) 591-2203,
ext. 6143 or send an e-mail.
 NASA Digital Learning Network
http://nasadln.nmsu.edu/dln/content/catalog/
The goal of NASA's Digital Learning Network™ is to enhance NASA's capability
to deliver unique content by linking customers with one or more NASA Centers in
an integrated fashion. This coordinated digital learning network will let us better
leverage NASA's unique content, facilities, and personnel so that we can provide
students and educators at the precollege and university levels across the Nation
and around the world with a unique experience.
Learners at all levels have the opportunity to interact directly with NASA
scientists to gain a new appreciation for the importance of science and
education.
Attached is a link to the events catalog. There are currently 61 Virtual Field Trips
in the NASA database. All video conference are of high quality.
 OLD FORT NIAGARA
http://www.oldfortniagara.org/education/distance.php
Just the [Arti]facts, Ma'am
An interactive program, designed to introduce students to the study of artifacts
and archaeology. Presented in a game format, this program lets students have
fun while they learn!
Duration: 45-60 Minutes Cost: $75.00
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Customize Your Own Program
Additional programs can be created to suit individual class/school needs.
Possible topics include:
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Artifacts
The Fur Trade
American Revolution
War of 1812
World War I
World War II
”Ask the Expert“
Colonial Life
French & Indian War
18th/19th Century Uniforms and Clothing
Pre & Post Tour Programs
Current cost for full prograqms (45-60 min.) is $75.00. Cost for short programs
(20-30 min.) is $35.00.
 The Buffalo Zoo
http://www.buffalozoo.org/distance_learning.html
Distance Learning Program Information:
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All programs are interactive, multimedia, and employ the use of live
animals and live exhibit footage as needed.
All programs are designed to help students fulfill the National and New
York State Learning Standards.
Pre and post program information and materials are provided (except Q &
A) and are included in the program fee.
Class size is limited to 25-30 students for maximum interactivity and
program quality.
The Buffalo Zoo’s distance learning equipment is capable of presenting at
a speed of 384 kbps (ISDN) or less.
Program Length: 45 minutes unless otherwise specified
What are the program fees?
$85 for 45-minute sessions, including: SENSE-ational Animals, Behavior Basics,
Rainforest Experience, Conservation Connection, Gorilla Quest, Habitat
Explorers and Q&A
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$50 for our 30-minute Q&A session or Teacher Workshop
$200 for our series class, Animal Enrichment
How do you schedule a distance learning program?
1. Contact the Distance Learning Coordinator at the Buffalo Zoo to schedule a
program for a specific date, at (716) 837-3900 ext. 143 or email at
rbalk@buffalozoo.org.
2. The Zoo will send a confirmation letter with additional information, along with
any necessary materials.
 Mote Marine
http://www.seatrek.org/programs.htm
Connect your classroom to sharks, manatees, sea turtles and more! Mote’s
SeaTrek program uses interactive videoconferencing to engage students, one
class at a time in exciting marine science topics. SeaTrek’s educators develop,
test and deliver highly engaging and interactive live programs, featuring realworld science at Mote Marine Laboratory.
SeaTrek brings high-energy, multimedia science programming right into the
classroom using videoconferencing and Internet technology.
Our programs feature real scientists working in the field with interviews showing
how their interests led them to their careers. Each program is supported by a
free, downloadable, companion curriculum, aligned with National and Sunshine
State Science Education Standards.
 COSI's Virtual Museum
http://www.cositoledo.org/programs/p_idl.htm
These forty-minute sessions were developed using established National Science
Standards as a framework for fun interaction! Prior to the sessions, teachers are
mailed a package of materials, curriculum, and extensions for their classes to
participate in during their upcoming lessons. These live sessions present science
concepts featuring a COSI WOW! introduction, followed by group explorations
between the COSI Team and your classroom. These learning modules
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complement classroom curriculums, and all sessions are personalized with the
format adjusted according to the ages and ability levels of the participating sites.
Session Costs
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Purchase 1 session for $170 plus line charges
Purchase 30 sessions for $125 each plus line charges
Purchase 60 sessions for $100 each plus line charges
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Price includes Class interaction kit for 30 students including:
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Teacher's Guide
Module Outline
Sample Hands-on Activities
Interactive Group Exploration Materials
Post-event Extension Activities
References and Resources
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 Indianapolis Zoo
http://www.indyzoo.com/content.aspx?cid=268
Pricing Information
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Multipoint (two to four schools participating): $80 in-state, $90 out-of-state
Point-to-Point connections (one school participating): $160 in-state, $170
out-of-state
View only: $40 in-state, $50 out-of-state
Special Request Programs (programs arranged to fit your schedule): $160
in-state, $170 out-of-state
Arrangements for these programs must be made at least two weeks in
advance and schedule availability may be limited.
Monthly Specials (these are all multipoint connections): $70.00 in-state,
$80 out-of-state
For all connections, schools are responsible for paying their own line
charges.
NEW! Multi-program discount! Book four or more programs at one time
and receive $10 off the price of each program. Programs must be
scheduled with the same school or site. Programs may be scheduled for
any time during the same school year, but all requests eligible for the
discount must be submitted, received, and approved at the same time.
Not valid for view-only programs; sites must be interactive.
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 Brownsburg Challenger Learning Center
http://challenger.brownsburg.k12.in.us/distance_learning.html
Brownsburg Challenger Learning Center offers distance learning to students
across the nation! Through our partnership with Ameritech, and as a member of
the Vision Athena Network, Brownsburg Challenger Learning Center has
expanded its programming to include distance
learning. The distance events vary. We offer a
variety of programs, mission access workshops,
and special events. $60-$130 per event
NEW!!
Challenger Learning Center is now offering
programming through IP (Internet Protocol)
technology!
 Ocean Institute
http://www.ocean-institute.org/html/educator_info.html
We are here to help open new worlds to your students, and in doing so, stretch
their imaginations and show new possibilities for their futures.
$210 per event
 Albany Institute of History & Art
http://www.albanyinstitute.org/resources/distlearning.htm
The Albany Institute's Virtual Field Trips are exciting real-time interactive
programs. Museum educators use objects, images and inquiry-based teaching
methods to engage students in lessons that focus on American history and art
as well as the art and culture of ancient Egypt. Students are active participants in
the lesson; they observe, analyze and express their ideas about objects and
images presented.
The Albany Institute’s videoconferencing is intended for individual classes or
group of 30 students or fewer. In addition to a main camera, a special “document
camera” allows for close inspection of individual objects. Each lesson is
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approximately 60 minutes. Each lesson was co-written with K-12 teachers , and
corresponds with New York State and National Standards.
Reservations are suggested two weeks in advance for all Virtual Field Trips and
Virtual Teacher Workshops. Please contact Tracy Grosner at 518.463.4478 or
education@albanyinstitute.org to schedule your lesson.
Availability
Monday through Friday, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (EST)
Fees
Virtual Field Trips are $100.00 each and Virtual Teacher Workshops are $50.00.
Each school is responsible to pay for connection fees for the videoconferencing
call.
Technology Required
We can connect via ISDN or IP, at speeds up to 384K. Please contact your
district's technology coordinator for further information.
 The Center for Puppetry Arts
http://www.puppet.org/edu/distance.shtml
The Center for Puppetry Arts uses the latest technology to offer nationwide
Distance Learning programs for PreK-12. Hands-on puppet building workshops
are conducted via videoconferencing and are tailored to specific classroom topics
and curriculum. The arts are infused with science, social studies, language arts
and other disciplines to create a dynamic, interactive virtual classroom for a
virtual field trip experience. Programs complement national curriculum standards
in language arts, social studies, science, math and other areas. The Center
provides a comprehensive study guide and materials list for most programs.
Program Fees:
• All programs are $130 each (point-to-point connection)
Discount Policy:
• Book 10 programs and the 11th is free
• Georgia schools, call 404.881.5117 for discount information
Connectivity Information:
• The Center connects directly via ISDN (H.320) & IP (H.323)
• Tandberg 880 MXP
• ISDN connections require a minimum speed of 128 k and maximum of 384 k
• Please email or call for IP address and ISDN numbers
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 Smithsonian American Art Museum
http://americanart.si.edu/education/virtualtour.cfm
Artful Connections
Visit the Smithsonian American Art Museum without leaving your school! Free of
charge, we offer videoconference field trips for students from kindergarten
through college. Via real-time videoconferencing, museum docents lead the
study of U.S. history and culture using our extensive holdings of American art.
We have already held Artful Connections with teachers and students across the
country—from the Garden State to the Golden State!
Our content corresponds to national education standards, and tours can be
tailored to match your specific objectives. Pre- and post-visit materials are
available for school use. Planned for typical classroom periods, our video field
trips range in length from thirty minutes to one hour. We welcome multiple visits
with the same class!
Through your BOCES Distance Learning Service the Coordinators are ready to
help your school integrate Virtual field trips in to the students’ learning
experiences. Contact information for you BOCES is listed below. For the City of
Buffalo Schools, please contact the UB Cate representative, also listed below.
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