Week Four (Chapters Six and Seven): • Topic (Educational Technology), Module (Methods to Classroom) – Clip: A Dinosaur WebQuest

Some advantages of using WebQuests in education are enhancing the learning process through various means. Based on the video, the second graders appeared to be proactively learning opposed to having to listen to a lecture. This method of learning allow for students to take ownership of their learning process. Another advantage is the use of WebQuests allows students to explore learning strands through technological research. Students were engaged in the learning process because the assignments encouraged each student in a three-member group to be responsible for specific tasks. Hence, students learned by uncovering answers using various Web sites. At the end, students were able to take what they had research and convert it to a presentation to share with the entire class. Students were assessed based on how they performed on a test.

There are some problems that students may encounter if a WebQuest (that has pre-selected Web sites) are not used in learning. If the teacher does not access or discuss those Web sites, it may discourage students from accessing those same Web sites in the future. Students may only access the Web sites that they are most comfortable with and the ones that were discussed in class. Another problem is students may not know how to navigate specific Web sites that were not discussed in class. This could also become a problem in students’ learning.

There are many benefits in which “structured” learning through a technology medium can help improve learning. One way is that it incorporates kinesthetic learning through a technology medium. Many students enjoy using technology and are quite efficient. The use of technology can enhance how students learn and grasp learning concepts. Another benefit is that it helps students to remain on task through an outline that teachers should originate prior to students coming to class. When students follow the prescribed “structure,” they are ensuring that each learning strand and objective will be covered.

If I were charged with the task to design a WebQuest, I would be sure to align the learning strands and objectives with the content contained in WebQuest. Afterwards, I would locate some Web sites that would provide my students with the appropriate hands-on experience. Lastly, I would familiarize myself in using and navigating through each Web site.