Thomas, Great observation. Field trips by virtue of their limitations of larger students nunbers usually prevents a "partcipative" component. But needless to say, when that limitation is removed, what a wonderful experience may await the student. Field trips are awesome in that they can inspire and motivate unlike other instructional strategies. I think some students have only vague ideas about the profession they're training for, and field trips can provide a glimpse that other activities cannot. Barry Westling