WebQuests

This week's learning provided information about creating WebQuests, which are not for the faint at heart. These incredible virtual learning environments are a tool that will engage learners in a creative process using analytical skills. However, a WebQuest designer must use skill in the creation.



WebQuests follow a logical path in their design which includes an introduction, tasks, resources, a process, a conclusion, and an evaluation. There is a discovery period where learners pull together what they gleaned from the resources and, perhaps, their own investigation of the topic. The resources must be applicable to the topic under investigation. Most of all, the WebQuest's contents must be well organized and highly visual.

While participating in a WebQuest, learners will have an opportunity to synthesize information and participate in collaborative reflective discussions to facilitate knowledge acquisition. For learners that are new to the internet world, this activity can assist them in acquiring technological skills in the clouds.

Personally, I can appreciate the value of a well-designed WebQuest. My sandbox course is designed using the same process as a WebQuest. Simply put: Provide an introduction with background information, include resources for discovery, and request participation in a discussion forum response to the topic to generate a reflective thought process.

Education Today

Please click on this link to view my Voki.  Thanks!

A Virtual Learning Environment for a 21st Century Education

What does Education mean these days?

Video: An Open Letter to Educators

What do you think about the current state of the traditional educational system?

Statement of Purpose

My main purpose for participating in the M4T-Advanced course, provided by Integrating Technology, is to allow for continuance of pushing myself out of my old comfort zone, which is no longer as comfortable as it use to be. Previously, I was content with basic Web 1.0 & Web 2.0 tools, such as Microsoft word and ppt, as well as email and instant messaging. Those tools served my needs as I perceived them. Sure, I knew about the value of interaction within a learning environment and that the sage on the stage was not the only medium in which folks can learn in a learning environment. Then, thanks to a colleague’s recommendation that I learn Moodle because I want to teach online, I enrolled in the M4T-Beginners course. Through this course my thinking was enlightened. I found that I greatly enjoyed learning Moodle as a dynamic learning management system (LMS) and the value of incorporating Web 2.0 tools to create an engaging learning experience. Further, I found that Moodle and Web 2.0 tools provided an excellent opportunity for people around the world to connect, learn, and create without limitations to time or place.

With the shifting of my world and my entire attitude about Web 2.0 tools, I am continuing onward in my quest to create vibrant and engaging learning environments with the Moodle LMS. I want to learn more techniques about what makes an authentic learning experience and how to use Moodle and Web 2.0 tools in that experience. As well, I want to take my ability to teach beyond a lecture and the provision of reading resources and create, with Web 2.0 tools, captivating learning experiences with creative twists.

The goals of this course, as established in the syllabus, intend that I reach a mastery level of online and blended instructional design. The outcomes of that learning, for me, have multi-faceted implications. I will continue to learn Moodle, Web 2.0 tools, online learning pedagogies, best practices, about the latest research and publications, and, best of all, connect, communicate, and collaborate with brilliant folks around the world.

My project for this course will be to create an online introductory course in business while explaining why I designed the course in the fashion that I did.

I am fortunate and thankful for the opportunity to participate.

Why wouldn't you pick Moodle?

There's no reason that I can think of, especially with the improved Moodle version 2.0 to be released shortly.  However, perhaps you have a need that's more than Moodle can meet at this time.  If you're considering the use of Moodle as a course management system (CMS) or, as I prefer to call it, a learning management system (LMS), then you have likely done some research already and have concluded that Moodle will be a good fit to meet your need.  Congratulations!  You will save yourself lots of money by eliminating the purchase of CMS/LMS software.  You will need a server or access to a server that houses Moodle.  There are lots of great web sites that can assist you in your efforts.  Choosing the correct one for you depends on your need.  Some sites will even offer you free web hosting in some instances.  Finally, if you want a formal and superb authentic learning experience for obtaining knowledge about Moodle, check out Integrating Technology for some great opportunities to learn.

All the best to you!