Denver Zoo’s virtual field trip programs, Classroom Safari and Wild Discovery, offer engaging and interactive experiences for students of all ages. Whether you’re an early childhood educator, an elementary school teacher, or a lifelong learner, these virtual tours provide a unique opportunity to connect with the zoo’s diverse animal inhabitants and learn about conservation efforts.

Classroom Safari: Bringing the Zoo to Your Classroom

The Classroom Safari program is a 45-minute interactive experience that allows students to virtually explore the Denver Zoo. Designed for early childhood (ages 3-Grade K), elementary (Grades K-5), and all-age groups, these programs offer a captivating way to learn about the zoo’s animal residents and the important work the zoo does to protect them.

Program Details

• Cost: $160 per program, with a 30-participant limit.
• Age Groups: Early childhood (ages 3-Grade K), elementary (Grades K-5), and all ages.
• Program Length: Approximately 45 minutes.
• Availability: Programs can be scheduled through April 15, 2023.

During the Classroom Safari, students will have the chance to interact with Denver Zoo educators and Animal Ambassadors, who will share fascinating insights and stories about the animals. These virtual experiences are designed to be engaging and educational, with a focus on life science and conservation.

What to Expect

• Interactive Experiences: Students will have the opportunity to ask questions, participate in activities, and even meet some of the zoo’s animal residents up close.
• Educator-Led Instruction: Knowledgeable Denver Zoo educators will guide the virtual tour, providing in-depth information and engaging students throughout the program.
• Animal Ambassadors: Students will have the chance to virtually meet and learn about the zoo’s Animal Ambassadors, which are animals that serve as representatives for their species.
• Curriculum Connections: The Classroom Safari programs are aligned with various educational standards, making them a valuable resource for teachers.

Wild Discovery: Exploring the Zoo’s Wonders

In addition to the Classroom Safari programs, Denver Zoo also offers the Wild Discovery virtual events. These interactive sessions are designed for elementary students (Grades K-2) and provide a unique opportunity to learn about the zoo’s animals and conservation efforts.

Program Details

• Cost: $5 per participant, per event, with no capacity limits.
• Age Groups: Elementary students (Grades K-2).
• Program Length: Not specified, but events are held on select dates and times set in advance.
• Availability: Open to all age-appropriate participants from any group or learning setting.

The Wild Discovery events are held on select dates and times, allowing students from various learning settings to join in the virtual exploration of the Denver Zoo. These events offer a more flexible and accessible option for schools, homeschool groups, and other educational organizations.

What to Expect

• Interactive Presentations: During the Wild Discovery events, students will engage with Denver Zoo educators and Animal Ambassadors through interactive presentations and activities.
• Diverse Animal Encounters: Students will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of animal species, their habitats, and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
• Hands-On Learning: The virtual events may include opportunities for students to participate in hands-on activities, such as creating enrichment items for the animals or exploring the zoo’s sustainability initiatives.
• Flexible Scheduling: The Wild Discovery events are held on select dates and times, making it easier for educators to incorporate them into their lesson plans.

Benefits of Denver Zoo Virtual Field Trips

Participating in Denver Zoo’s virtual field trip programs offers numerous benefits for students and educators alike:

1. Accessibility: Virtual field trips eliminate the need for transportation and logistical challenges, making the zoo’s resources accessible to a wider range of schools and learning settings.

2. Personalized Learning: The interactive nature of the virtual programs allows for a more personalized learning experience, where students can engage directly with the content and ask questions.

3. Curriculum Alignment: The Classroom Safari programs are designed to align with various educational standards, making them a valuable resource for teachers looking to integrate the zoo’s content into their lesson plans.

4. Conservation Education: By learning about the zoo’s animals and the conservation efforts, students develop a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.

5. Flexibility: The Wild Discovery events offer a flexible scheduling option, allowing educators to easily incorporate the virtual experiences into their teaching schedules.

6. Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to the expenses associated with in-person field trips, the virtual programs provide a more cost-effective way for schools and learning groups to access the zoo’s educational resources.

Conclusion

Denver Zoo’s virtual field trip programs, Classroom Safari and Wild Discovery, offer a unique and engaging way for students of all ages to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom. Whether you’re a teacher looking to enhance your curriculum or a lifelong learner with a passion for wildlife, these virtual experiences provide an opportunity to connect with the zoo’s diverse animal residents and learn about the important work being done to protect them.

By taking advantage of these virtual field trip options, you can bring the Denver Zoo’s educational resources directly to your classroom or learning setting, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the importance of conservation.

Reference:
– Denver Zoo Virtual Field Trips