| WebQuests | http://edweb.sdsu.edu/webquest/webquest.html |
Looking for an Internet Based Student Activity? Why not send them on a "Web Quest"?
OK, it's a legitimate question. Just what is a "Web Quest"? Using their definition:
"A WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented activity in which most or all of the information used by learners is drawn from the Web. WebQuests are designed to use learners' time well, to focus on using information rather than looking for it, and to support learners' thinking at the levels of analysis, synthesis and evaluation. The model was developed in early 1995 at San Diego State University by Bernie Dodge and Tom March, and was outlined then in Some Thoughts About WebQuests."
The following flowchart indicates the logic involved in designing a Web Quest. As can be expected, a great deal of thought and planning go into the development of lessons that are tied to Internet research.
Over the length of this project, many WebQuests have been designed and placed online for others to use. Essentially, the design follows a standard template. Designers set expectations for the learning that students will perform. Included as well are suggestions for class arrangement, groupwork, and recommended web sites for reference materials.
As well as hosting the concept, the web site contains many Web Quests that have already been designed and have been placed online for use by any teacher who happens to surf on in. Click on the "Collections" button to see a list of what's available. There are a number of Web Quests based on university work but a growing number are directed to elementary and secondary school classes. In particular, I followed the link to "Memphis City Schools" where there are the following Web Quests ready to use.
If you are searching for ideas and lessons to get the most from an Internet based lesson, check out this site.
 |
 |
 |