Well, I finally had to give it a try. My favorite Web2.0 tool is GlogsterEDU so I just had to test it out to see how well I liked it in the format of a WebQuest. And I have to say I LOVE it! In the past I would dread creating a WebQuest due to the fact I would have to "relearn" Dreamweaver for the millionth time. I would try to find ways to avoid creating them or just come up with excuses for why I couldn't "tackle" it at that time.
So, just the other day I sat down at my computer to work on a few Glogs I had been putting off for the past several weeks due to technology conferences I was attending and/or presenting. When I started applying all the information I had recently acquired from the tech conferences it dawned on me that a Glog would be the perfect format for a WebQuest. So I decided to create a framework or shell for how it could work. Keep in mind the WebQuest that was created was quickly created just to demonstrate how it would work, look and feel in this format.
I have to say it was the easiest thing I had created in a long time. I loved the fact that I could add additonal multi-media content that really couldn't be easily added to Dreamweaver or any other template. (For our teachers, Dreamweaver has a high learning curve so the ease of a Glog was my solution to the problem), The best part was how I could embed videos for those roles that needed access to them. They no longer "had" to click on a link to get to the video, instead it was right there and easily accessible. Next, being able to attach scaffolding guides and not worry if they are in the correct folder with the correct path in order for the students to access was a huge plus. Then to have the capability of easily customizing the Glog wall and Glog page without having to know html code was the icing on top. Using a Glog just made total sense. I had the ease of this platform at my fingertips plus all the bells and whistles it offers to create a customized WebQuest for my teachers to use with their students. So easy, yet so fun. Since this first creation, I have shared this tool with all my eMINTS teachers I train. This way it eliviates stress of learning Dreamweaver and they can focus on the content of their WebQuest. It's a super tool for many uses and can't wait to experiment with more.
Keep in mind this WebQuest example is just that, an example. I didn't focus on the content of the WebQuest but the platform in which it is delivered. I wanted a true example of a Glog as a WebQuest that was fully functional so I created it quickly. The WebQuest is truly in the beginning stages as far as the content goes, but at least my teachers can see how easy and perfect the two fit together.
To check it out visit: http://tompkj.edu.glogster.com/oregon-trail-webquest-/
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Jodi,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the excellent example. Using the GlogsterEDU platform for a webquest certainly appears that it will enables studnets to avoid distraction and remain focused. Your example is an excellent way to showcase the multiple ways of introducing the students to content. Great job, and thank you.