The “WebQuest” has become so popularized that the term is used to describe nearly any Internet exploration project that includes a goal, a product, and list of online resources. This in no way is the fault of Dr. Dodge or anyone working closely to clearly define and refine WebQuests.
I know the webquest was not the first proposal of this type. Apple Computer distributed at least one book of similar projects that were called Online Adventures and I see the phrase still generates hits in an Internet search. Now, I also know other variants are still emerging.
Tech Forum has a a model called “The Project Page” (see
Presentation – Jakes “Creating Virtual Workspaces”). The structure for a project page consists of a scenario, task, resources, product, and assessment. I must say that my definition of a WebQuest may be inaccurate because this is pretty close to what I would list. There must be some details that I am overlooking.
To some it may not matter what such projects are called. The general concept is certainly practical and useful. However, the new WebQuest Portal has taken the position that now all web explorations qualify as WebQuests and the discussions that should follow concerning design features and issues of quality should prove interesting.
