Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC)
Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) is a hallmark of the University School experience. We believe the Lowcountry is our classroom, and students in every grade spend one day per week away from campus having experiences that challenge and inspire them. This entails over 30 field trips per year to experience everything from live theatre to landfills and plantations to museums.
In addition, we welcome many guest speakers and performers to our campus throughout the year. We enjoy hearing from elected officials and candidates, as well as members of our community with unique stories to share, and the performances range from science-based action to dance. Download our 2019-2020 Cultural Events schedule!
Want to read more about how a year full of hands-on learning opportunities inspires our students? Visit our Year-in-Review page to see highlights from each academic year, or keep scrolling for links to LOTC Reflections written by our students.
LOTC Reflections
LOTC Reflection: SEWE
“This was my second year going to SEWE. The inclusion of Brittle Bank Park this year was definitely an improvement on last year, getting to see the dock dogs and sheep herding was very interesting. As always the birds of prey demonstration was really cool … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Black History Hall of Fame
“This was a fun learning experience that was full of surprises, laughs, and fun. Because the actors were so great, it felt like we met Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, and Martin Luther King in real life. I laughed out loud in the performance. It was … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Poe Poetry Project
“A theater group from Virginia came to our school to do a mini play on Edgar Allan Poe and do workshops with us so we could learn more about Edgar Allan Poe and his style of poetry. The play was really funny and as an … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Number the Stars Performance
“When we went to see Number the Stars, I was blown away. The play, even though there were only 5 actors, was able to do a great job getting the plot across. It was a great visual experience. We read the book, and I think … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Faith Exploration (Dor Tikvah Synagogue)
“We went to the Dor Tikvah Synagogue where we learned about Judaism. We learned that the Synagogue was gender separated so they wouldn’t get distracted. It was interesting to learn about different religions.” Shared by Andrew G. – 7th Grade
LOTC Reflection: Faith Exploration (Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church)
“Mount Pleasant Presbyterian was interesting because we got to learn about a branch of Christianity. It was a great visual learning experience. I liked learning how presbyterian churches are simple on the inside and outside.In the inside the design was very simple and they didn’t … Read more
LOTC Reflection: MUSC visit
“It is a tradition that we visit MUSC every year. Each year we tour a different department. This year we explored the Audiology Department and the Sim Center. We had been to the Sim Center before, and I found it interesting how the technology has … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Patriots Point (Spaceship Exhibition/Submarine/ Vietnam Experience)
“We did a lot at Patriots Point. We went back in history by going in the Vietnam Experience and the USS Yorktown. The USS Yorktown let us see what living on the ship during the war was like. The Vietnam Experience felt like an American … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Exit Polling
“Exit Polling is one of USL’s annual field trips, it is by far my favorite LOTC. Once we return from our two precincts we compile our results in the gym. I love seeing the trends of our poll, and helping teach the younger kids what … Read more
LOTC Reflection: Halsey Art Institute
“The Halsey Art Gallery is truly unique! When we went to see the Southbound exhibit, I was stunned. The photography was so expressive! We got to see the captured moments of the behind the scenes of some popular places- even the circus. It’s definitely a … Read more