54 TEACHING SCIENCE IN THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

and discovering things that can never be found in the classrooms.
 The excursion or field trip as a teaching technique is unique
in that it makes possible first hand experiences with many ma-
terials which cannot be brought into the classrooms. These
materials may be seen in their true relationship only in the field.
 The excursion has many values. Particularly has it been
found that actual field study brings about shifts in social atti-
tudes, that it provides experience in finding the solution of
problems arising from individual and group participation in
natural social situations, that it stimulates discussion, furthers
research, and promotes language and creative activities. Ex-
cursions also provide leads for intelligent use of leisure, give
meaning to needs of conservation, stimulate curiosity, and help
the children know their own community.
 If a field trip is to be pleasurable and profitable to the chil-
dren and teacher alike, it must be well-planned. Children can

 Studying nature in the out of doors on a field trip sponsored by the
 Children's Museum.