Webquests are learning activities developed by educators that allow users to read, analyze and synthesize information using the World Wide Web. It is an inquiry-oriented lesson format that uses hyperlinks in which most or all the information that learners work with comes from resources on the Internet; it is a great way of incorporating the internet into the classroom. Creating a Webquest is quite easy once you understand the critical attributes and purpose of the Webquest.
Things you will need
- Computer access
- Internet access
- Before you begin working with Webquests you first need to understand the basics to browsing: how to use the web browser, how to use the buttons and bookmarks, and how to use a URL.
- Secondly you will need to know the purpose of the lesson and the expected results
- Determine the learning structure: will the students operate individually or in teams? In a classroom or work from home?
- The Webquest assignment can be given on paper, on the web itself or in a presentation format such as PowerPoint. It should include a road map, a task sheet and a summary presentation.
- Locate the materials to include; research web resources for topics and information. Utilize search engines.
- Review search results. Ensure you have quality content from authentic sources.
- Organize your chosen sites and combine resources to support your theme.
- Make the Webquest available to your students using tools such as Filamentality or Teacherwebquest.
- Administer your “real world” task to students.
- Explore other strategies of Web-based learning activities like Topic Hotlist, Subject Samplers, and Knowledge Hunts before starting Webquest.
- Research Webquest resources to see if your desired topic already exists.
- If you’re creating your own Webquest for the first time use the Filamentality site (http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/fil/index.html) for support in picking a topic.