Interactive videoconferencing (IVC) field trips include live, two-way video interactions with content providers that utilize Internet technology to extend your resources and provide students with unique educational experiences.

Teachers need two-way video equipment (provided by your school district), a television monitor or LCD projector, and a network connection to access content providers virtually. There are thousands of content providers around the world, ranging from local museums, to zoos, to NASA and the Smithsonian Museum. Virtual field trip content may be provided free of charge, but most content costs from $75-$150 per session.

Through our partnerships with TANDBERG, a leading provider of Interactive Distance Learning solutions, and the Foellinger Foundation, Allen County educators have access to funds to pay for virtual field trip content.

Grant funds are offered through ACELINK to encourage and support pioneer teachers in the use of two-way interactive video to create unique educational experiences for students. Allen County teachers can use ACELINK funds to purchase content from recognized providers, or to fund "special projects" that involve two-way video with other classrooms, teachers or partners.

Sign-up to be contacted about IVC field trip opportunities.

Send your name, school, email and phone number to the project coordinator. You'll receive email notices whenever exciting and free content is available, or if we find new content.

"IVC Field Trips open up the world for our students. Through these trips, our students get the fantastic opportunity of experiencing things they normally never get to."

Lynn Wilson
Teacher, Anson Elementary

The cost of content will be paid by ACELINK as follows:

• Only ACELINK partner school educators are eligible.
• One application per educator, per semester.
• ACELINK pays the provider cost of the program. If there are additional line charges or shipping charges for materials, your district/school needs to pay these. If a provider sends an invoice for the program to your school, then ACELINK will reimburse the school for that amount.
• When requesting a field trip, it is the responsibility of the applicant to notify the appropriate district/building technical support staff.
• Applicants must invite another educator, administrator or staff person to observe the program.
• Applicants must fill out an evaluation of the program after it is completed.

After you have requested funding, you will receive an acknowledge email of your request. When your request is accepted, the ACELINK project coordinator will contact you in advance to help set up the event and provide technical support if needed.

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Finding Content/Providers

There are thousands of content providers around the world, and many educational organizations provide searchable databases and listings of the best content for virtual field trips. All subjects, grade levels, and geographic locations are available, depending on your needs.

Before spending too much time searching on your own, try the following online databases:

Center for Interactive Learning & Collaboration (search Programs)

Global-Leap (International Directory)

Pacbell Videoconference Adventures (the original listing)

Twice (Michigan Service Center)

Other Information for Teachers

While the content of an interactive videoconference (IVC) field trip is very important, there are other considerations to creating a successful event. The information below is intended to provide general guidelines for setting up an event, managing your classrom during an event, and working through technical issues. Click on any link below for additional information.

• Tips for Successful IVC Field Trips (Word or PDF)
• IVC Field Trip Search Form (Word or PDF)
• Student Preparation Guide (Word or PDF)
• ACELINK IVC Field Trip Directory (Excel or PDF)
• Other IVC field trip directory links