an introduction to webquests making the best use of existing web- based resources through webquests

An introduction to WebQuests

Making the best use of existing web-based resources through

WebQuests

www.rsc-london.ac.uk

So what exactly is a WebQuest?

“an inquiry-oriented or problem solving activity where some or all of the information learners interact with comes from resources on the internet”


Why use a WebQuest?

• there is (too) much information available on the www

• there is very little educational benefit to simply letting learners surf without a clear task in mind

• WebQuests are a means of using this information by providing a clarity of focus for effective learning to take place


How long will a WebQuest last?

• WebQuests can be either short-term or longer-term

• Short-term (1-3 lessons) where the goal is to allow for knowledge acquisition and integration

• Longer-term (1 week – 1 month) where the goal is to extend and refine knowledge


Designing a WebQuest activity

1. How well do you know what’s out there? Familiarise yourself with what is available on-line

2. Organise resources into categories (e.g. searchable databases, reference materials, research catalogues etc.)

3. Identify topic areas where there is suitable and appropriate material available on-line

4. Create the WebQuest activity


Creating a WebQuest activity

Select an appropriate

activity

Select a design (use templates

available)

Describe how learning will be

evaluated

Design the process of the

activity

Check it works - Tart it up and

roll it out!


An evaluation of WebQuests

• makes use of primary, up-to-date materials

• stimulates learners with an interesting do-able task

• focuses learners attention on outcomes• allows for collaboration• improves research skills and provides a

medium for synthesis to take place


Where to go next?

• Pedagological theory http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/webquest/webquest.html

• WebQuest materials and training materials http://webquest.sdsu.edu/materials.htm

• WebQuest examples http://webquest.sdsu.edu/matrix.html


http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/webquest/webquest.html

http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/webquest/webquest.html

http://webquest.sdsu.edu/materials.htm

http://webquest.sdsu.edu/matrix.html

Will PickfordCurriculum Advisor,

JISC RSC-LondonE-mail w.pickford@rsc-

london.ac.uk


an introduction to webquests making the best use of existing web- based resources through webquests

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