Webquesting

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Webquests are built for inquiry-based learning with a focus on interdependence, where students take on a role and perform individual tasks that are needed for the whole group to succeed. Each student must become an expert in their role and share this information with other group members for the group to complete the project. Here is a link to a webquest I am developing. We will explore the concept and participate in a quick demonstration of how this webquest could work. http://whyisitso.wikispaces.com/ Other examples include: http://mindyourpeas.wikispaces.com/ @http://www.cap.nsw.edu.au/research-modules @http://www.emints.org/inside-emints/webquests/by-emints-teachers/ @http://questgarden.com/author/examplestop.php

Here we will explore how webquests are structured. There are five main elements that make up a webquest: **An introduction** - Describes the activity to the students and is there to excite and engage them. **Task** - Outlines what the students are asked to do or present at the conclusion of the webquest. **Process** - This outlines each component that the students need to complete. It also defines the roles and resposibilities within the webquest along with link to resources and scaffolds to help them on their way. **Evaluation** - Usually a rubric for the students to view so they can see how they will be assessed. **Conclusion** - Summarises their accomplishments and also provides for extension. @http://webquest.sdsu.edu/taskonomy.html (this link provides further information on the variety of forms that a webquest can take) @http://ozline.com/strategies/webquests/webquests-template/

Form into groups and discuss what topics you teach that could be developed as a webquest. The following websites will assist you to begin creating your own webquest:

@http://www.leftfootrightfoot.com/training/webquests/planningguide.html @http://webquest.sdsu.edu/roadmap/index.htm



@http://webquest.sdsu.edu/LessonTemplate.html @http://www.educationaltechnology.ca/resources/webquest/templates.php **OR**, if you are not confident with using dreamweaver and creating a website from scratch, you can create a webquest through a Wikispace, Weebly website, or any other web2 tool that suits your purpose. **Still not comfortable:** - Use a word doc to set up your webquest and save as a webpage. - Use powerpoint to create the structure and put it on the school server for students to access. - Use smartnotebook to create your webquest. Your friendly CLC can help you with the creation of a webquest. Just contact them to assist you to put your ideas into action. Don't forget - iTeach21 also is a great source of assistance.