Evaluating Worthwhile WebQuests CEP 812 Not all WebQuests posted on the net are exemplary. In fact, the very first WebQuest I came across for my assignment was a bit less than stellar. It lacked some features that motivate students to carry on with their quest. However, here are two exemplary WebQuests that you could use as the basis for your next WebQuest design.
Aerodynamic Adventure
Rebecca Stump and Margaret Schram’s exciting activities engage students in simulations (gizmos) whereby they have to make flight decisions as if they were the pilots. They have to calculate the shortest flight path, best connection between different countries and much more that require students to analyze given data such as time and distance, synthesize other information about flights and then evaluate the most cost effective path. In addition, the WebQuest is very well-designed, with all 6 parts clearly stating the objectives and way to proceed. It has links to interactive websites and gives students some insight into the lives of important historical figures.
Created by: Jean-Claude Aura
Date: April 2009
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Evaluating Worthwhile WebQuests CEP 812 Geometry in Art, Architecture, and Nature
Romeo Baldeviso teaches mathematical concepts by taking his students on a WebQuest around the world. Students have to identify the shape of the different structures they come across and explain a few mathematical and geometrical concepts. This WebQuest integrates a lot of research and engages students in activities that require higher-order thinking skills such as measuring the different parts of the structures by applying the different axioms and mathematical theorems they have learnt. Instead of teaching geometry the traditional way, Romeo Baldeviso enlivens the subject matter by giving it a meaning; students get to see real life applications of geometry.
Romeo Baldeviso divides his WebQuest into 7 parts, giving credits to all contributors. The resources implement different strategies and entail detailed self-explanatory tutorials that help students acquire the basics of geometry along their journey through the WebQuest.
Created by: Jean-Claude Aura
Date: April 2009
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