Computer-based Instructional Objects

I often find myself wishing that I could use computer-based instructional objects more often.  However, with only three working computers in my classroom and limited time, I find it difficult to do so.  Though it was mentioned briefly in our notes, I think time is something that should be considered when creating computer-based instructional objects for student use.  How long do you want students to spend on completing the WebQuest or StAIR?  Is the object to be used as supplement to other activities in the classroom?  If so, then perhaps keeping a shorter time frame in mind would be helpful.  Will students need to go to a computer lab and all work at the same time, or will individuals and groups need to share limited classroom computers?  If the latter is true, it will take longer for students to complete these instructional objects.  

Thinking clearly about your audience is also something that was touched on briefly, but I believe critical to creating successful computer-based instructional objects.  The make-up of the class and the student dynamics should be considered when choosing or creating these objects.  If the object is too difficult for some, perhaps it could be used as enrichment for advanced students.  Likewise, a particular object could be created or utilized to give some students additional support.

A few good WebQuests:


Westward Ho! - I like the idea of having students pretend they are on the Oregon Trail.  The color scheme works well for the given topic.  I also like that there are samples given; students often like to see something like this.  

Planning and Budgeting - I like the real-life draw in this one.  It is easily applicable to students' lives and could easily be a supplement to other things happening in the classroom.

A Geomystery - I like the fact that this one involves the students also getting something from their teacher.  As a teacher, I think this would help me to continually monitor student progress throughout. 

Generally, I found many WebQuests that I mostly liked.  On many there was at least one thing that I wish were different.  It may have been the chosen links for information, the design, or how the task and/or process were worded.  I think all of these are crucial for creating an effective WebQuest.

I thought I'd also note this one:

Medieval Times - I wanted to note this one because I feel that the information is good.  I like the idea of having students move through the hierarchy of the Medieval Times.  However, the design of it makes it difficult to work through easily.  The flashing text, long pages that must be scrolled through, among other issues create a WebQuest that may keep people away, which is disappointing considering the content looks to be valuable.