Readings for "Web-based Tools for Classroom Instruction"

       This section cincerning Webquests was probably one of the most helpful and informaative csections in our class so far. I learned a lot about a subject I knew little to nothing about. Particualrly helpful for me was Halat's suggestion of visiting webquest.org, to view examples of well-contstructed Webquests for the classroom. I must admit, when I first heard of the assignment to design a Webquest, I found it daunting: I had never even heard of a Webquest before, let alone asked to design one for students.
       Lispcomb writes that "research has found that students will develop more meaningful ideas of the past if it personalized for them" (1). In my mind, nothing attaches a subject like history more to the brain and imagination than finding a way to make the past seem relevant to each student's life.
I also agreed very much with Lipscomb who said that in choosing a Webquest to use make sure not to pick one that requires extraneous adventures with online search engines (2). I think this is a valuable bit of advice: I recall doubting myself on many projects in junior high, as well as high school, because I was overwhelmed with research options.What I appreciate most about the Webquest format is that it can be either an individual activity or a group project. A teacher could either assign individual projects (which would increase personal connections with an academic subject) or a team activity (allowing students to foster a sense of contribution to the success of the group).
       Of course, Halat points out the obvious risk in assigning a Webquest, namely that students will become distracted by the multitudinous other websites at their disposal while completing the project (3). But, I think that in our current stage of educational development, it is almost impossible to keep students from tinkering around on the Internet during an assignment. Certainly teachers should not condone it, but I fear a witchunt would only make kids want to goof off during an assignment more. The Webquest, even with this flaw, is valiantly attempting to personalize and energize lesson plans that otherwise may have remained monotonous and dreary.