Educational Excursions: Pupils Embark on Outside-the-Classroom Learning Experiences
The National Archives in Washington, DC offers a unique opportunity for students to delve into America's rich history through free student field trips. These educational experiences are designed to engage and inspire, with two main options available: the Art and Architecture of the National Archives, and America's Freedom Train.
The Art and Architecture of the National Archives program invites students to critically engage with the building's art and architecture, while the America's Freedom Train program focuses on America's founding documents and their role in shaping U.S. society. A modified version of the Art and Architecture program is available for larger student groups, featuring a 20-minute presentation in the McGowan Theater followed by a visit to the National Archives Rotunda to view the founding documents.
For those interested in exploring the struggles and achievements of American women, the Remembrance of the Ladies: Women's Rights from the Revolution to the ERA program is a must. This program delves into American women's civic activism and achievements from the Revolutionary War era to the Equal Rights Amendment and beyond.
One temporary exhibit, Power and Light, showcases the work of American documentary photographer Russell Lee, particularly his photographs of coal miners and their families. The Power and Light program encourages students to make connections between photographs and story-telling, strengthening their observation and analytical skills. The exhibit will be on display until December 2025.
Another temporary exhibit, Unveiling Stories: Power and Light, will be on display from March 2024 to July 2025. This exhibit focuses on Lee's Coal Survey, offering a glimpse into the lives of coal miners and their families.
Field trips last for 90 minutes and are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, with programs starting at 9:30 a.m. ET or 12:00 p.m. ET. Availability for field trips is based on staff and volunteer guides, so it's essential to plan well in advance and contact the Education Team at [email protected] at least 90 days in advance. At least 45 days advance registration is required for field trips.
While specific requirements for scheduling a student field trip at the National Archives in Washington, DC are not detailed, it's important to contact the National Archives directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Group size, available days, and recommended tour durations can vary, so it's essential to check their official website or contact them directly for specific availability. The maximum number of students on any one field trip is 35.
Remembering the words of Abigail Adams, who in 1776 admonished her husband John to "remember the ladies," these field trips offer a chance to explore the often-overlooked stories of American women and the nation's founding documents. So, why not plan a trip to the National Archives and give your students an unforgettable learning experience?
Online education and learning opportunities extend beyond the classroom, as the National Archives in Washington, DC offers unique programs for self-development. For instance, the Remembrance of the Ladies: Women's Rights from the Revolution to the ERA program provides insights into American women's civic activism and achievements throughout history.
