WebQuest and Exploratory Talk and Inquiry
What is Exploratory Talk
Exploratory talk is a conversation in which partners engage critically and constructively in discussing each other’s ideas. Relevant information is provided to justify thoughts and ideas. Proposals may be challenged and counter-challenged, offering reasons and alternatives. Agreement is sought as a basis for joint progress.
What is WebQuest?
A WebQuest is an inquiry-based lesson or activity in which students use the Internet to search for information (Dodge, 1997). In this learner-centered activity, developed by Bernie Dodge and Tom March (Sun Associates, 2001), the instructor’s role is not to lecture to students who are passively taking notes, but to plan, guide, and facilitate learning (Simon, 2005). A WebQuest allows students to venture beyond the ordinary world of classroom learning and access the vast amount of information available on the Web.
What is inquiry – based learning (IBL)?
Inquiry means that an individual conducts research on his own to find a truth or knowledge. In the field of teaching and learning, inquiry is a type of education in which the learner uses a set of skills and attitudes necessary for the processes of hypothesis generation, information and data organization and evaluation. Following this, the investigator has to make a decision regarding the proposed hypotheses formulated to answer a question or come up with a fact or problem, and then apply what has been reached in new contexts. That is, the inquiry-based learning method is a method of teaching that depends on the positive participation of the learner and his own inquiry. He is supposed to conduct the research using a set of scientific activities and processes such as observing, suggesting hypotheses, measuring, data reading, and making assumptions and reaching conclusions. All this help him to reach the required information by himself and under the supervision and guidance of the teacher.
- IBL creates rich authentic learning situations - mathematics and science are learned in a more meaningful way.
- Students work with their teachers and peers in a systematic inquiry about questions or topics that are of interest to them.
- Students are actively involved in the following:
- Dialogue with each other and with their teachers
- Determining inquiry questions/directions
- Finding and processing information
- Shaping a response/report
- Doing something with what they have found out
