Using WebQuests for instruction allows me to "apply technology resources to enable and empower learners with diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and abilities" (Williamson & Redish, 2009, p. 209). I used WebQuest to introduce Greek mythology with my English I students. I provided a variety of safe resources that appealed to different students with different capabilities.
In the past, I had always given PowerPoint notes. It is a cool presentation that I worked hard on, but it got dry and took two days to get through. Since I liked the PowerPoint, I did not want to just get rid of it, so I incorporated it into the WebQuest. This showed me that I did not have to throw away everything I had worked so hard creating as a teacher to incorporate 21st century instruction. I could repurpose it.
ISTE Standards/Indicators (Williamson & Redish, 2009)
(TF-II.A) Design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology enhances instructional strategies to support diverse needs of learners.
(TF-II.C) Identify and locate technology resources and evaluate them for accuracy and suitability.
(TF-III.A) Facilitate technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards.
(TF-III.B) Use technology to support learner-centered strategies that address the diverse needs of students.
(TF-III.B.1) Use methods and strategies for integrating technology resources that support the needs of diverse learners, including adaptive and assistive technology.
(TF-III.C) Apply technology to demonstrate students’ higher-order skills and creativity.
(TF-III.E) Use current research and district/region/state/national content standards to build lessons and units of instruction.
(TF-V.C) Apply technology to increase productivity.
(TF-VI.B) Apply technology resources to enable and empower learners with diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and abilities.
(TF-VI.E) Facilitate equitable access to technology resources for all students.
(TF-VII.A) Use the school technology facilities and resources to implement classroom instruction.
(TF-VIII.A) Identify and apply educational and technology related research, the psychology of learning, and instructional design principles in guiding the use of computers and technology in education.
(TF-VIII.E) Engage in supervised field-based experiences with accomplished technology facilitators and/or directors.
References
Williamson, J. & Redish, T. (2009). ISTE's technology facilitation and leadership standards: What every k-12 leader should know and be able to do. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education.