Introduction

Title: Weaving a WebQuest

Subject: Technology Integration

Level: Teachers

Author: Jordy Whitmer

Abstract: The activities in this workshop are designed to help educators create WebQuests that integrate core curriculum content and technology. During the activities, participants will: learn about the typical structure of WebQuests; consider traits of effective WebQuests; explore and evaluate WebQuests created by other educators; design an original WebQuest; and upload their WebQuests to Filamentality.

Invitation: Imagine a teaching method that combines the internet, cooperative learning, problem-based learning, and high student motivation. WebQuests do just that. But, how do you go about finding quality WebQuests that fit your curriculum? Or, better yet, how can you create your own effective and engaging WebQuest?

Situations: This project should take about four sessions to complete. Some sessions are more time consuming than others but the overall project should take about 8 hours, not including homework.

Tasks:

Part 1: What is a WebQuest?

• "Read" presentation on WebQuests
• Read and discuss articles about WebQuests
• Complete a WebQuest about WebQuests
• List traits of an effective WebQuest

Part 2: Evaluating Existing WebQuests

• Score a pre-selected WebQuest using the rubrics
• Examine sites with sample WebQuests
• Brainstorm topics for your WebQuest

Part 3: Designing a WebQuest

• Plan WebQuest basics
• Define a Problem/Goal
• Describe the Process
• Find Resources
• Select methods of Evaluation
• Plan a Concluding activity

Part 4: Providing Peer Feedback and Posting a WebQuest

• Provide feedback to partner
• Revise WebQuest as needed
• Post a WebQuest

Part 5: Field Testing a WebQuest

• Design and implement a field test for your WebQuest
• Revise WebQuest as necessary
• Update posted WebQuest as necessary

Interactions: This project is best completed by a study group of colleagues, though it can be done solo. If completed in a study group, one person should take the role of facilitator.

Objectives:

Teachers will:

• Understand what makes for an effective and engaging WebQuest
• Evaluate existing WebQuests
• Create WebQuests that include the essential elements of task, process, resources, evaluation, and conclusion
• Post a WebQuest on Filamentality's web site
  

Assessment: Successful completion of this project should result in a completed WebQuest that meets the standards defined in the WebQuest rubric. Assessment will come from colleagues and/or the reviewers from the Ameritech Technology Academy.

Tools:

• Computer
• Internet access
• Web browser
• Adobe Acrobat Reader

Copyright Information
© 2001-2003, Jordy Whitmer
Materials may be duplicated for personal, not-for-profit use only, provided that full credit is given on all pages. All other uses, transmissions, and duplications are prohibited unless permission is granted expressly.