University of Virginia

EDLF 589: Using and Creating Web-Based Lessons

One (1) graduate credit

Instructor: Dr. Cynthia Sparks

sparkcwi@cps.k12.va.us

Description:

In this course participants will explore the concept of web-based lessons. They will research and evaluate teacher created WebQuests posted on the web. After researching and evaluating existing lessons, participants will create their own web-based lesson that engages students in higher order thinking and cooperative learning through an inquiry-based approach. The problem-solving WebQuest model will be used in the design process. Participants will learn to locate useful information on the Internet and incorporate this information into dynamic learning experiences.

The course will consist of four modules, two covered on Friday night and two covered on Saturday. Participants will then have a two-week period of time to complete the required creation of a WebQuest for use in their classroom.
This is not a beginning computer course. Participants should be comfortable browsing the Internet, using email, downloading and saving information and images, and using a word processor.
Participants will spend additional time searching, reading, and gathering materials for the completion of their WebQuest activity.

Goal:

To effectively integrate web-based learning into the K-12 curriculum in order to enhance the learning environment and encourage collaboration and higher order thinking

Objectives:

· Explore the concept of project-based learning.

· Gain a basic understanding of web-based lessons, specifically WebQuests

· Explore the basic attributes of a WebQuest including: task, resources, process, and evaluation.

· Research and evaluate a variety of WebQuests

· Discuss the value of web-based lessons with other classroom teachers.

· Identify specific WebQuests appropriate for use in their classrooms.

· Use a template to design and develop a WebQuest that engages students in an inquiry-based lesson, encouraging collaboration and higher order thinking.

· Discuss and explore the value of using the web to engage students in their content.

Course Materials:

Virginia SOL Manual

Course Requirements:

Students will be expected to:

Attend all sessions and participate actively
Create or expand on a lesson plan that utilizes web sites and addresses that support the Virginia SOLs or other specific content
Create a WebQuest based on the design of Bernie Dodge, San Diego State University
Must include the problem-solving and cooperative learning experiences typical of a WebQuest
Create hyperlinks to at least three (3) external sites
Must be a useful application to curricula content of the SOL or other subjects taught in the K-12 classroom
Must be written to be replicable by other teachers

Evaluation:

Successful completion of this course includes

Participation in course discussion

Completion of the WebQuest activity

Attendance in class sessions

University of Virginia Honor Code:

All work should be pledged in the spirit of the Honor System of the University of

Virginia. The instructor will indicate which assignments and activities are to be done individually and which permit collaboration. Students signed the pledge when filing their course materials. Students can refer to the University Graduate Record (pages 36 & 37) for more information concerning the Honor Code.

Special Needs: If you are a student with special needs you should let the instructor and the Staff Development Office know as soon as possible prior to the beginning of class.

Grading:

This course carries the grades of Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U). To receive a satisfactory grade, students must earn a minimum of 85 points

Attendance and participation (30 points)

WebQuest (40 points)

Instructional Relevance/organization and design (30 points)