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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?.
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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” www.rsc-london.ac.uk
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 focusfor effective learning to take place www.rsc-london.ac.uk
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 www.rsc-london.ac.uk
Designing a WebQuest activity • How well do you know what’s out there? Familiarise yourself with what is available on-line • Organise resources into categories (e.g. searchable databases, reference materials, research catalogues etc.) • Identify topic areas where there is suitable and appropriate material available on-line • Create the WebQuest activity www.rsc-london.ac.uk
Creating a WebQuest activity Design the process of the activity Select an appropriate activity Describe how learning will be evaluated Select a design (use templates available) Check it works - Tart it up and roll it out! www.rsc-london.ac.uk
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 www.rsc-london.ac.uk
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 www.rsc-london.ac.uk
Will Pickford Curriculum Advisor, JISC RSC-London E-mail w.pickford@rsc-london.ac.uk www.rsc-london.ac.uk