This webinar will share a scalable, replicable technique for creating walking field trip maps. Walking field trips are treks to natural and community spaces planned during class time for the purpose of enhancing students’ learning experience and helping to achieve academic goals. Hands-on opportunities to apply knowledge are available everyday, right in the neighborhood of the school! Using nearby public land, open spaces, parks, trails, and walking paths as instructional settings can also create opportunities for students to learn about the local landscape, develop a sense of place, and become more environmentally literate.

An example map of six elementary schools in a rural school district will demonstrate how the 'Google My Maps' format can be used to easily share routes, photos, and descriptions. Tips for conducting walking field trips will also be presented, including where to go, how to plan, and why taking students outside during class time is academically important. Discussion will detail the selection of suitable routes, best practices, and logistical recommendations for before, during, and after the walking field trip.