WebQuests
What
is a WebQuest?
A WebQuest is a problem-solving, inquiry-oriented
activity. Some or all of the information that the learner needs to complete
the task comes from resources on the Internet. The emphasis is on creative
and critical thinking and information skills.
WebQuests are based on essential questions
and built around pre-selected resources. Students spend their time using
information, not looking for it.
WebQuests can be --
-
as short as a single lesson with
the goal of dealing with a significant amount of new information
-
as long as a month-long unit
with the goal of extending and refining knowledge as a problem is addressed.
The learner analyzes information, transforms it and demonstrates understanding
with the final presentation
A WebQuest has six parts --
-
an introduction that sets the stage and
provides some background information
-
a task that is manageable and interesting
-
a set of information resources needed
to complete the task
-
a description of the process the students
should follow to complete the task
-
guidance on how to organize the information
-
a conclusion that rounds off the quest
and reminds the students about what they have learned
What
is special about WebQuests?
-
WebQuests are often based on
real-life scenarios. They tackle actual problems with the result that students
find them motivating and challenging
-
Web Quests require students
to exercise higher order thinking. The problems and questions posed cannot
be answered simply by gathering and regurgitating information. Students
are forced to process and transform information in order to find a solution
to a problem
-
WebQuests often require collaboration.
Students are directed to take on specific roles within a small group. They
gather, share and discuss information before working on a presentation.
What
kinds of topics are suitable for WebQuests?
WebQuests lend themselves
best to --
-
topics that are not well-defined
-
tasks that require creativity
-
problems with several possible
solutions
They can address open-ended
questions such as --
-
What was it like to live during
the Middle Ages?
-
What should be done to save
the Murray?
-
What is the best form of energy
for South Australia?
The sites below provide examples
of many different kinds of WebQuests. Some are very simple, others more
complex. Some are visually ornate while others are quite plain.
They can be used as they
are - or you can take them as a basis for designing others.
WebQuests need not be exclusively
on-line - you can adapt the structure and the problem-solving approach
for any assignment.
