Education Through Travel: Learning Beyond the Classroom
We’re all familiar with the saying that travel broadens the mind, but have you considered the profound impact experiential learning through travel can have on a child’s education? It goes beyond mere sightseeing; it transforms their understanding of the world and opens up a myriad of learning opportunities.
According to a survey conducted by The Wagner Group1, where 400 individuals were interviewed, the results are compelling:
- Over half of the children who had the opportunity to travel achieved higher grades.
- A significant 57% of those who embarked on childhood travels pursued higher education opportunities.
- An astonishing 80% believed that educational travel ignited a deeper interest in what they were taught in the classroom. Learning experiences outside the confines of traditional classrooms are fundamental in shaping a young person’s development, regardless of their age. For many, travel becomes a gateway to discovering new places and unveiling a world far more diverse than they could have ever imagined. In today’s travel market, more families are recognising the immense educational value of travel, otherwise referred to as an ‘edu-vacation’ in a recent article by the New York Times2.
What are the benefits of an ‘edu’vacation’ you ask?
• Cultural immersion and empathy: One of the greatest gifts of educational travel is cultural immersion. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and engaging with different cultures fosters empathy, tolerance, and a broader perspective.
• Language acquisition: Conversing with locals not only improves language skills but also provides insights into the culture and way of life. Students become true communicators, breaking down barriers and forming meaningful connections with people from around the world.
• Global Citizenship and future opportunities: As our world becomes progressively interconnected, global competency is a coveted skill. Educational travel arms students with a deeper understanding of international issues, cultural sensitivities, and the ability to adapt to different environments.
• Power of Experimental Learning: Travel is a living, breathing textbook. It offers an opportunity to learn by doing, seeing, and experiencing. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins in Greece, conversing with locals in a bustling market in Morocco, or studying marine life in the Galápagos Islands, these real-world encounters become vivid memories etched into a student’s mind.
Angus Gibson, Head of Carfax Tutors, highlights the unique advantages of learning through travel, stating, “Educational travel sparks curiosity, fosters experiential learning, fuels language acquisition, and immerses students in different cultures, with no sign of this trend slowing down.”
By crafting immersive itineraries, and unforgettable cultural experiences, we can transform a holiday into a transformative adventure that will stay with your children for a lifetime.
