Evaluating Worthwhile WebQuests CEP 812

Created by: Jean-Claude Aura Date: April 2009 Page 1

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.

Evaluating Worthwhile WebQuests CEP 812

Created by: Jean-Claude Aura Date: April 2009 Page 2

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.