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WebQuest Wonk

Helping the WebQuest Grow Up. Discussing how accepted educational theories become educational practice in the WebQuest classroom. Connecting the WebQuest with younger online technologies, like RSS, WIKI, BLOGS, and PODCASTS.

Monday, September 26, 2005

WHY THIS BLOG?

I have used the WebQuest as a classroom tool since 1997, just after Tom March came to North Georgia to evangelize teachers to the new instructional model, and instructional tool (Filamentality). The WebQuest is 10 years old now (as of February 2005). It is growing up. As children grow up, many new and wonderful things are added to their lives. I think the same can be true with the WebQuest.

Bernie Dodge, the father of the WebQuest, has introduced a new online tool called QuestGarden, wherein teachers can create, collaborate, and host WebQuests. This tool promises to save time in the process of creating WebQuests. I have tried it, and it will save users time while also allowing them to include all the things necessary for a quality WebQuest.

My new angle...I have been using Bloglines for a while now. It consolidates all the blogs I like to read (I am sure I am missing some good ones). You can read what I read by looking at My Blogroll. I have also been podcasting for the school where I teach. I have become a believer in the power of Wikis as a tool for connect thoughts and ideas. I have often found that as my students are working through a WebQuest, there should be something more for them at the end. Bernie and Tom call it "transforming" old knowledge into new content. I like that component, but too often there is not an outlet.

Thus the answer to WHY THIS BLOG? I want to offer ideas, suggestions, and examples of how bridging the generations of the old relative (WebQuest) with the younger family members (RSS, Wiki, Blog, Podcast) can allow students to contribute to and connect with the world of teaching and learning.

I also want to demonstrate how the WebQuest model is based upon accepted educational theory. The WebQuest works for a reason. When a WebQuest does not work, it is probably not the fault of the quest itself. There is likely a lack of theoretical underpinnings.

Post your comments anytime. They are very welcome. I hope to add a podcast soon, that will go along with this blog. I hope you enjoy it.

posted by Ric Murry @ 9:02 AM

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