In looking at this week's reflection, I was able to view a variety of WebQuests put together by teachers from around the United States. Many of them were out of date, referencing programs that no longer exist and had multiple links that led to sites that also do not exist.
As far as working within a classroom, I prefer WebQuests because they have a greater ability to be interactive. Many of the examples had students working in groups, researching things online and presenting information as a group. StAIR projects are helpful in teaching and reinforcing new content, but can be done individually, even without a teacher present. Both seem useful in the appropriate context.
As I searched through some example WebQuests, I found many interesting social studies topics that relate to my curriculum. I particularly liked this example because it asked the students to make a choice to travel west on the Oregon Trail or to stay put. They had to take into consideration different points of view and make a persuasive argument as to why they chose what they did. I also liked this WebQuest because it involves different learning styles. The students need to put on their creative hats as they learn about the Aztecs, specifically Aztec legend, "The Two Mountains." The simplicity of this WebQuest made me consider using it with my own students. If all the links were active, I probably would use it. We cover life cycles at the beginning of the year, which makes the simple design of this WebQuest ideal in timing.
It was important to me, as I looked through all the different examples I found, to click through the WebQuests' links. In the process, I found that many were empty links or went to websites that had more advertisements than information. When considering WebQuests, looking at the links is a vital part of the process. Not only were there many dead links, but I came across one that seemed to be perfect for my students until I looked through the links. The websites they referenced were way above a third grade reading level, which I would not have known had I not done a thorough search.
While WebQuests are valuable tools for learning, and I am amazed at the vast amount available, it is important to make sure all the websites linked to are active and appropriate for your students. Also, when websites are out of date, students do not have current information to reference. I like the way many WebQuests are set up, but thorough research needs to be done of existing sites before they should be used in the classroom.
Meredith,
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, let me apologize for taking so long to comment. Most of the invitations I got for our group's blogs didn't work. Secondly, let me congratulate you on your recent endeavors. I think it's amazing you've decided to teach in another country. I also commend you for being willing to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. After spending 6 weeks abroad, I know how difficult it can be to adapt to a new culture. I think what you are doing is amazing! I hope you will keep us posted on your adventures.
In terms of your post regarding WebQuests, I completely agree with your point about the lack of usable WebQuests available. I too found most of the WebQuests out there were outdated or didn’t work and was very disappointed with the quality of most of them. It’s a shame because I feel WebQuests could be such a powerful tool in the classroom.
Thank you for your post!
Hi Meredith,
ReplyDeleteI also think what you are doing by teaching in another country is wonderful! You are a risk-taker. You will gain so much from the experience and have many memories. I do hope you keep us posted, by blog maybe, and let us know what it is like.
I agree with you about the WebQuests. I think they are a great way for students to learn, but they have to be working and up-to-date. At first I was surprised at all the WebQuests out there, but then I was disappointed to find so many that were good but the links weren't. I also like the one you found about life-cycles as we do a study on insects at the beginning of the year and life-cycles is part of it. This would have been very good to use if all the links were working. I also agree we have to be very careful and check out all the links to not only make sure they work, but are appropriate for our students.
Great examples in your reflection! I too have been amazed at the vast number of WebQuests available. It makes me think back to years past when I have spent hours and hours setting up single activities for my students. I cook up these ideas and, instead of researching what's already out there, I just go to work building it from scratch. How time consuming! I love the idea of being able to go to a WebQuest database and searching for work others have already done. But like you said-- the sources need to be carefully scrutinized before used!
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