What is WebQuests

A lesson plan model for using technology in a classroom setting.

Originated by Dodge and March in 1995, WebQuest is an instructional tool for inquiry-oriented learning with an emphasis on developing learners’ critical thinking and social skills as well as their ability to construct new knowledge. Two levels of WebQuests exist: short term and long term. Short-term WebQuests focus on learners’ knowledge acquisition and integration that can be completed in one to three class hours, whereas long-term WebQuests may take between one week and a month in a classroom setting. A well designed WebQuest typically contains six parts: (1) introduction; (2) task; (3) information sources; (4) description of process; (5) guidance; and (6) conclusion. These segments guide learners through WebQuest activities by providing descriptive background information, defining tasks, supplying information resources needed to complete tasks, and a describing the process learners should go through in accomplishing tasks. As an online instructional model, WebQuest is considered to be an effective way to organize chaotic Internet resources and help learners gain new knowledge through a structured learning process.

The student begins with a question or a topic and produces a research project using information that is found on the Internet. The final product can be a written report, PowerPoint presentation, three-dimensional project, dramatic interpretation, or any other technique that can demonstrate understanding.