|
|
Definition
Learning Quests are structured learning activities in which
students investigate problems or issues, using the web as a
resource. Ideally they engage students in higher order thinking
and problem solving and involve them in meaningful, challenging
and motivating inquiry. They are structured to provide students
with scaffolding that direct them to reliable and
developmentally appropriate websites and avoid the frustration
of time wastage on unproductive searching. Two types of Learning
Quests are:
WebQuests, in which students are presented with an authentic
situation and a task, which is usually a problem to solve or a
project to complete. The WebQuest model was originally developed in
1995 by Bernie Dodge and Tom March at San Diego State University.
WebQuests provide students with a structural
learning framework, which provides scaffolding and support, yet
still facilitates self-directed learning. They provide an authentic
meaningful contextual learning environment, which enhances the
nature of learning and thinking, problem solving and the integration
of knowledge.
On-line Research Modules, as developed by Jamie McKenzie, engage
students in higher level critical thinking and problem solving
through a structured research process. Students answer important
questions that require original thought instead of simply gathering
information.
For more information about Learning Quests, including those
authored by Australian teachers, check following list.
|
Main
Information Sites
Other
Sites Providing Information
Reviewed
Examples of Learning Quests
- This is Tom March's
site. It provides selected WebQuests with a star rating and year level
appropriateness.
http://bestwebquests.com/
- From Bernie Dodge's
WebQuest page - A matrix of "Top" WebQuests that have been evaluated
as good examples of WebQuests arranged in year levels and subject areas.
http://webquest.org/matrix3.php
- From Bernie Dodge's
WebQuest page - A matrix of "Middling" WebQuests that have been
evaluated and found to have a number of good features. WebQuests arranged
in year levels and subject areas.
http://webquest.org/matrix2.php
|
Examples
of Learning Quests
- This is Spartanburg
District 3 Country Schools in South Carolina WebQuest page. It features
examples of K-12 WebQuests and additional links to other WebQuest sites.
http://www.spa3.k12.sc.us/WebQuests.html
- Elementary WebQuests.
This page contains WebQuests that have been created by teachers and graduate
students. The WebQuests located at the top of this page are primarily
short-term, single subject quests, those located near the bottom of the
page are long-term, multidisciplinary quests.
http://www.manteno.k12.il.us/webquest/elementary/elementary.htm
- Middle school
Webquests. These WebQuests have been created by teachers and graduate students.
The WebQuests located at the top of this page are primarily short-term,
single subject quests, those located near the bottom of the page are long-term,
multidisciplinary quests.
http://www.manteno.k12.il.us/webquest/middle/middle.htm
|
Australian
Examples of Learning Quests
Evaluation of
Learning Quests
Construction of Learning
Quests
-
Filamentality is a step-by-step
interactive Web site that guides users
into creating web based learning
activities, such as WebQuests. No
knowledge of HTML is necessary.
http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/fil/
|
|
