This interactive page offers 360° virtual field trips to notable conservation sites across Hawaiʻi, such as Pia Valley, Kawainui Marsh, Hāmākua Marsh, and Pouhala Marsh. Hosted by DOFAW and designed for students and educators, the virtual trips feature clickable hotspots with engaging information, videos, and links. The program aligns with Next Generation Science Standards and Hawaiian education frameworks, and includes grade-level lesson plans via the DOE Canvas Commons.
Independent Exploration
Launch a virtual trip and navigate through 360° photos, clicking hotspots to learn about native species, ecological processes, and cultural history.
Guided Classroom Lesson
On a projector or smartboard, lead students through a site (like Pia Valley). Pause at hotspots and facilitate discussions on plant identification, invasive species, watershed roles, and traditional uses.
Extension Project
Use the provided DOE-aligned lesson plans (K–5) to build a follow-up activity—e.g., researching plant uses, mapping invasive species, or presenting a conservation proposal.
STEAM Add-On
For advanced classes, integrate a mapping module: students capture screenshots from the trip, tag key features, and create annotated digital storymaps or infographics.
Native vs. invasive plants in diverse ecosystems (e.g., Pia Valley)
Wetland ecology and wildlife habitat management (Kawainui, Hāmākua, Pouhala Marshes)
Cultural landscapes: Hawaiian place names, traditional practices, and historic sites
Watershed science: hydrology, ecosystem services, community stewardship
Virtual fieldtrip pedagogy and integration with NGSS & Nā Hopena Aʻo
