Step 5

A hidden WebQuest has been uncovered… but only those who have mapped the journey properly may proceed.

"As the Nautilus delves deeper into the unknown, a case has emerged—one that requires strategic thinking, collaboration, and an understanding of how knowledge itself is shaped. Those who have deciphered the previous step will know the key to access the archives. Enter the correct password to proceed."

ENTER SECRET ARCHIVE: Advanced Case Study WebQuest

This advanced case study WebQuest presents a real-world challenge where learners must:

Apply curated OERs to analyze a complex problem.
Engage in team-based inquiry to generate solutions.
Present a final artifact demonstrating synthesis and evaluation of their findings.

Identify additional OERs

Step 3 described identifying the process and breaking it down to constructively scaffold the learning experience toward maximum success. However, a key element of WebQuests is their reliance on using the Internet to complete tasks. The WebQuest designer must be intentional about curating high-quality, relevant resources while also guiding participants in conducting their own research to fill gaps.

The Role of OERs in WebQuests

OERs (Open Educational Resources) are freely available materials that support learning without traditional access barriers. They can be text-based, multimedia, interactive, or data-driven, ensuring that learners engage with credible, diverse, and inclusive perspectives. A well-designed WebQuest leverages OERs to:

Provide structured guidance while encouraging inquiry-based learning.
Ensure accessibility and equity in education.
Develop digital literacy skills by modeling effective research practices.
Foster critical thinking by exposing learners to multiple perspectives.
Support cultural competency by incorporating diverse viewpoints and global knowledge.

Selecting and Evaluating OERs

When curating resources for your WebQuest, consider the following criteria:

Accuracy & Credibility: Ensure resources are current and from reputable sources.
Relevance: Align resources with the WebQuest's objectives and learning outcomes.
Accessibility: Use materials that support diverse learners, including translations, closed captions, and alternative formats.
Engagement: Select a variety of media types (articles, videos, simulations, datasets) to cater to different learning preferences.
Interactivity: Where possible, incorporate resources that allow learners to manipulate data, engage in simulations, or collaborate in real time.

Guidance for Learners’ Independent Research

Beyond curated resources, learners may need to conduct their own research. Provide guidance to ensure they:

Use trusted sources such as university repositories, digital libraries, and government sites.
Evaluate credibility by checking authorship, publication date, and citations.
Compare multiple sources to identify bias and develop a well-rounded perspective.
Cite sources properly to reinforce academic integrity and responsible digital citizenship.

Use the form below to capture design decisions

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