1. An introduction to WebQuests Making the best use of existing web- based resources through WebQuests www.rsc-london.ac.uk

2. So what exactly is a WebQuest? “an inquiry-oriented or problem solving activity where some or all of the information learners interact with comes from resources on the internet” www.rsc-london.ac.uk

3. Why use a WebQuest? there is (too) much information available on the www there is very little educational benefit to simply letting learners surf without a clear task in mind WebQuests are a means of using this information by providing a clarity of focus for effective learning to take place www.rsc-london.ac.uk

4. How long will a WebQuest last? WebQuests can be either short-term or longer-term Short-term (1-3 lessons) where the goal is to allow for knowledge acquisition and integration Longer-term (1 week – 1 month) where the goal is to extend and refine knowledge www.rsc-london.ac.uk

5. Designing a WebQuest activity 1.How well do you know what’s out there? Familiarise yourself with what is available on-line 2.Organise resources into categories (e.g. searchable databases, reference materials, research catalogues etc.) 3.Identify topic areas where there is suitable and appropriate material available on-line 4.Create the WebQuest activity www.rsc-london.ac.uk

6. Creating a WebQuest activity Select an appropriate activity Select a design (use templates available) Describe how learning will be evaluated Design the process of the activity Check it works - Tart it up and roll it out! www.rsc-london.ac.uk

7. An evaluation of WebQuests makes use of primary, up-to-date materials stimulates learners with an interesting do-able task focuses learners attention on outcomes allows for collaboration improves research skills and provides a medium for synthesis to take place www.rsc-london.ac.uk

8. Where to go next? Pedagological theory http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/web quest/webquest.html http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/web quest/webquest.html WebQuest materials and training materials http://webquest.sdsu.edu/materials.htm http://webquest.sdsu.edu/materials.htm WebQuest examples http://webquest.sdsu.edu/matrix.html http://webquest.sdsu.edu/matrix.html www.rsc-london.ac.uk

9. Will Pickford Curriculum Advisor, JISC RSC-London E-mail w.pickford@rsc-london.ac.uk www.rsc-london.ac.uk