Joint Statement

We have been set the challenge of collaboratively designing and creating a

WebQuest, a set of inquiry-oriented lessons in which most or all of the
information that students explore and evaluate comes from the World Wide
Web.
We believe that the rationale for assigning us this task is multi-faceted. Firstly,
it tests our understanding of how ICT tools can be integrated into the
classroom in an enjoyable way facilitating the learning process across a wide
range of content areas. It is vital that we, as pre-service teachers, be
progressive in our thinking and embrace the incorporation of technology in the
classroom. Secondly, it assesses our ability to work collaboratively as a team
to brainstorm, plan, create and publish a WebQuest. Thirdly, and most
importantly, it assesses our ability to effectively incorporate ICT into lessons
by linking with the Australian Curriculum. Student learning is enhanced as the
WebQuest links into a range of Curriculum requirements including subject
areas, skills, general capabilities and cross curriculum priorities. With a wealth
of knowledge to experience, the process is engaging, motivating, challenging
and creative.
Overarching these steps and requirements is an opportunity to reflect on
learning theories, and how they influence the shape and content of our
WebQuest. We will base these lessons around both the constructivist theory,
to highlight the importance of active learning, interaction and investigation,
and the multiple intelligences theory, by incorporating a wide range of ICT
tools to engage a range of learning styles.
Finally, we will be delivering part of two WebQuest lessons within a 30 minute
period which will facilitate the assessment of the effectiveness and suitability
of ICT tools selected. It will be an opportunity to enhance and practice
presentation and teaching skills. It also serves to share knowledge with our
peers and to encourage them to consider how our choice of tools contributed
to learning in the classroom.
Afterall, the future is in our hands
Michael and Anabel