WebQuest

What is a WebQuest you might ask?  It is really quite simple.  It is a virtual scavenger hunt.  Teachers can make them as general or as specific as they desire, so these types of activities can be used for a variety of subject matters.  Generally, the way a WebQuest is designed is that the teacher has a website (or several) for students to explore.  The students are given a worksheet and asked to answer the questions on the worksheet by moving through the site.  Students can work individually, in pairs, or in groups.

Music History WebQuest
http://oben.powertolearn.com/Music/conclusion.html

This WebQuest is a look into music history.  A student chooses a time period of music and then finds information about composers, compositional techniques, ensemble types, performance practices, instrumentation, and musical genres.  The student then follows the steps of the WebQuest to complete the assignment.

I could definitely see myself using WebQuests in my future classroom.  I like this activity because it can be adjusted for any age group of students - elementary through high school.  Being a music major who will be certified K-12, I really appreciate activities than can be modified for all ages.  I would use a WebQuest for high school students beginning a research project on a musical composer, for middle school students learning about musical time periods, or for elementary students studying musical instruments.

I think that WebQuests could be used for all types of education experiences, and I believe that I would make good use of these activities in my classroom.