What is a Webquest by Jack Opkins A

What is a Webquest? by Jack Opkins

A Webquest Is. . . • a research activity where information used by students is taken from the internet • focused on using information rather than looking for it • used to support students' thinking at the levels of analysis, synthesis and evaluation

Two types of Webquests • Short Term • Goal: a student will have obtained new information and made sense of it • Length: 1 -3 classes • Long Term • Goal: analyze, transform and demonstrate an understanding of the material by creating something • Length: 1 week-1 month

Vital parts of a Webquest • • • Introduction Task Information Sources Process Guidance Conclusion

Introduction • Sets the stage and provides background information

Task • Something that is possible and interesting

Information Sources • Students must not be left to wander through cyberspace • They need web documents, experts available, realtime conferencing, searchable databases, books and other documents physically available in cyberspace

Process • Clearly described steps the student should go through to accomplish the task

Guidance • Guiding questions, directions to complete tasks such as timelines, concept maps, or cause-and-effect diagrams

Conclusion • Brings closure to the webquest and reminds the students about what they have learned

Critical Thinking Question • What are the education benefits of webquests to students and teachers? Explain. • Would you use webquests in your classroom? Why or why not?

Webquest Example • Atomic Bomb Wequest