Let’s go on a field trip: Exploring the reflection of field trip on Gen Zs’ cognitive and affective engagement

Abstract

This study investigates the reflection of a field trip to one of main broadcasting stations in Malaysia, Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) on Gen Zs’ cognitive and affective engagement. With a growing emphasis on experiential learning, the role of field trips in enhancing educational outcomes has garnered significant attention. The research questions of the study are as follows: RQ1: What does the field trip bring to cognitive (attentional focus, imagination and sense of insight) of the Gen Zs before and after the trip? And RQ2: What does the field trip bring to affective engagement (awe and reverence, conflict information and being moved) of the Gen Zs before and after the trip?  The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing interviews as the primary method of data collection. The participants of the study were 15 university students across different grade levels and academic backgrounds who have experienced field trips. They were given questions pre and post field trips and answers were analyzed by using thematic analysis. By capturing the voices and perspectives of the participants, the study aims to provide valuable qualitative data that shed light on the cognitive and affective engagement of university students related to field trip. Cognitively, students showed improved attentional focus, heightened imagination, and a deeper sense of insight into broadcasting processes. Affectively, the trip evoked awe and reverence, increased awareness of the complexities in broadcasting, and emotionally moved the students, boosting their enthusiasm and motivation for the field. These findings highlight the critical role of experiential learning in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, enriching educational experiences, and inspiring career motivation.