The WebQuest

Bernie Dodge (2007) provides a definition of a WebQuest

A real WebQuest....• is wrapped around a doable and interesting task that

is ideally a scaled down version of things that adults do as citizens or workers.

• requires higher level thinking, not simply summarizing. This includes synthesis, analysis, problem-solving, creativity and judgment.

• makes good use of the web. A WebQuest that isn't based on real resources from the web is probably just a traditional lesson in disguise.

A real WebQuest (continued)…

• isn't a research report or a step-by-step science or math procedure. Having learners simply distilling web sites and making a presentation about them isn't enough.

• isn't just a series of web-based experiences. Having learners go look at this page, then go play this game, then go here and turn your name into hieroglyphs doesn't require higher level thinking skills and so, by definition, isn't a WebQuest.

Some steps that may help you:

1. Explore the Webquest website (http://www.webquest.org) in order to establish an appropriate topic for your grade level and content area.

2. Your Webquest will contain the following items: (see rubric for full details about how you will be graded!):

Steps continued:

a. An Introduction that engages the learner

b. A task that promotes higher order thinking and problem solving

c. A process page that details what the learners need to do to complete the Webquest

d. An evaluation page that lists the assessments used to determine if the learners have mastered the content of the Webquest

e. A conclusion that ties the lesson together

Steps continued:

f. A page of credits/references that provides the appropriate bibliographic information

g.A teacher page that details what another educator would need in order to implement this Webquest in their classroom.

h. At least 10 QUALITY web-based resources, scattered throughout the Webquest.

i. Appropriate standards (ISTE, ODE technology, and ODE academic content standards) included on the teacher page.

Steps continued:

3. Use the WebQuest Design Map page (http://webquest.sdsu.edu/designsteps/index.html) as a guide for developing your Webquest.

4. NOTE:  This assignment will be assessed according to the Webquest Rubric.

You should have these pages on your WebQuest website:

• Introduction • Task • Process • Assessment (you can use the word Evaluation if you

rather) • Conclusion • Credits • Teacher Notes

Ohio Academic Content Standards

http://ode.state.oh.us/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEPrimary.aspx?Page=2&TopicID=1695&TopicRelationID=1696

Dodge, B. (2007). Creating WebQuests. Retrieved 3/11, 2008, from http://webquest.org/ind-create/php