Classroom+Tips

=Tips for Using Geocaching in the Classroom=


 * Use cooperative teams of three giving each child a specific job. For example equipment handler, scout, and recorder. After each cach is found, jobs should be changed, so each child will have an opportunity to participate in each.
 * Equipment Handler: responsible for taking care of the GPS device and inputting coordinates.
 * Scout: responsible for scoping out the cache, advising members where to search and eventually leading the group to the cache.
 * Recorder: responsible for communicating with other groups if necessary, and recording data from the hunt in the form of pictures, audio, video, or text.
 * When hiding caches, hide the last cache to be found first. This way you can put the coordinates inside the next to the last cache for the last cache. Work your way out from the last to the first to be found.
 * Hide caches at least 100 feet apart. Across campus would be best. If they are close together, kids may find the wrong caches. To avoid problems, consider group names for the kids and adding their name to the hint you place in the cache. If they find a cache that isn't theirs, they will know to leave it for another group.
 * Put a note on the outside of the cache or inside stating that it is a temporary cache for a school project just in case someone finds the cache before the kids.
 * Designing your hunt can be as simple or involved as you want. Some ideas you might consider:
 * Student/class created "real" caches.
 * Each cache found has a clue to solving a problem.
 * Each cache contains objects that kids use to solve or create a problem.
 * Each cache is hidden near a particular plant or object leading to a more invoved project.
 * Students can create caches based on a project they have completed.
 * Groups rely on other groups fto connect information and solve problems.