An introduction to WebQuests

1
An introduction to WebQuests

• Making the best use of existing web-based
  resources through WebQuests

www.rsc-london.ac.uk
2
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
3
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

www.rsc-london.ac.uk
4
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
5
Designing a WebQuest activity

1. How well do you know whats 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

www.rsc-london.ac.uk
6
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
7
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
8
Where to go next?

• Pedagological theory http//school.discovery.com/s
  chrockguide/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
9
Will Pickford

• Curriculum Advisor,
• JISC RSC-London
• E-mail w.pickford_at_rsc-london.ac.uk

www.rsc-london.ac.uk