Webquests


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Webquests
What is it: A WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented lesson format in which most or all the information that learners work with comes from the web.[1] These can be created using various programs, including a simple word processing document that includes links to websites. WebQuests can be a valuable addition to a collaborative classroom and are based on constructivist learning theory. One of the goals is to increase critical thinking by employing higher levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy and Webb’s Depth of Knowledge. Learners typically complete WebQuests as cooperative groups. Each learner within a group can be given a "role", or specific area to research. Students can take on the personas of professional researchers or other figures. The first part of a WebQuest is the introduction. This describes the WebQuest and gives the purpose of the activity. The next part describes what students will do. WebQuests do not have to be developed as a true web site. They may be developed and implemented using lower threshold (less demanding) technologies, (e.g. they may be saved as a word document on a local computer) [Wikipedia - Creative Commons Attribution, Non-Commercial, Share-Alike license for details]. A WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented lesson format. The model for WebQuests was developed by Bernie Dodge at San Diego State University in February, 1995. WebQuests originated in the San Diego State University Learning Design and Technology program located in the School of Journalism and Media Studies.

EXAMPLES	COMMENTS
WebQuest.org	The most complete and current source of information about the WebQuest Model. Whether you're an education student new to the topic or an experienced teacher educator looking for materials, you'll find something here to meet your needs.
Finding a newsworthy focus (a completed webquest)	In this WebQuest, you will explore the definition of news value and then examine online news articles in order to identify the news value in stories that have already been written.
What WebQuests really are!	A well-designed WebQuest uses the power of the Internet and a scaffolded learning process to turn research-based theories into dependable learning-centered practices.
A WebQuest Template (just looking) (create one now using this template)	Google sites offer this template. If you are signed into Google you can create a site free. So can your students!

Create WebQuest (software)	Free if you signup
Quest Garden (software)	Quest Garden is an online authoring tool, community and hosting service that is designed to make it easier and quicker to create a high quality WebQuest. No knowledge of web editing or uploading is required. A 30-day free trial is available. Membership costs $20 for a 2-year subscription.
Example rubric for a WebQuest	From webquest.org