WebQuests are gaining popularity as teachers explore using the Internet for guided learning activities. A WebQuest involves students working on a task that is broken down into clearly defined steps. Students often work in groups to actively conduct the research. This article suggests a variety of methods for adapting WebQuests for students with learning disabilities. Various strategies include advance organizers, graphic organizers, hypertext study guides, outlines, vocabulary definitions, annotated lists of Web sites, and templates for compiling information.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
Anderson-Inman, L., & Zeitz, L. (1993, August/September). Computer-based concept mapping: Active studying for active learners. The Computer Teacher , 20(1), 6—11.
2.
Bahr, C.M., Nelson, N.W., & VanMeter, A.M. (1997). The effects of text-based and graphics-based software tools on planning and organizing stories. In K. Higgins and R. Boone (Eds.), Technology for students with learning disabilities: Educational applications (pp. 25—54). Austin, TX: PRO-ED.
3.
Barker, J. (2007). Evaluating Web pages: Techniques to apply and questions to ask. Retrieved May 25, 2007, from University of California Berkeley Library Web site: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/Guides/Internet/Evaluate.html
4.
Bisagno, J.M., & Haven, R.M. (2002, Spring). Customizing technology solutions for college students with learning disabilities. International Dyslexia Association quarterly newsletter, Perspectives, 21—26. Retrieved September 10, 2005, from LDOnline: http://www.ldonline.org/ld_indepth/technology/customizing_technology.html
5.
Dodge, B. (1995). WebQuests: A technique for Internet-based learning . Distance Educator, 1(2), 10—13.
6.
Dodge, B. (1997). Some thoughts about WebQuests. Retrieved September 9, 2005, from http://webquest.sdsu.edu/about_webquests.html
7.
Fourth annual e-government survey. (2003). Retrieved September 10, 2005, from Brown University, The News Service Web site: http:// www.brown.edu/Admistration/News_Burea/2003-04/03-025.html
8.
Griffin, C.C., Malone, L.D., & Kameenui, E.J. (1995). Effects of graphic organizer instruction on fifth-grade students. The Journal of Educational Research, 89(2), 98—107.
9.
Higgins, K., Boone, R., & Lovitt, T.C. (2002). Adapting challenging textbooks to improve content area learning. In M. R. Shinn, H. M. Walker, & G. Stoner (Eds.), Interventions for academic and behavior problems 2: Preventive and remedial approaches (pp. 755—790). Bethesda, MD: National Association of School Psychologists .
10.
Horton, S.V., & Lovitt, T.C. (1989). Using study guides with three classifications of secondary students. The Journal of Special Education, 22(4), 447—462.
11.
Horton, S.V., Lovitt, T.C., & Christensen, C. (1991). Matching three classifications of secondary students to differential levels of study guides. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 24, 518—529.
12.
Information Technology Technical Assistance and Training Center. (n.d.). Section 508. Retrieved September 9, 2005, from http://www.ittatc .org /
Jarrett, D. (1999). The inclusive classroom: Mathematics and science instruction for students with learning disabilities [Guide]. Portland, OR: Northwest Regional Educational Lab. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED433647)
15.
Knight, D., & Wadsworth, D. (1994). Accommodating the at-risk student in the middle school. Middle School Journal, 25(5), 25—30.
16.
Latham, P.H., & Latham, P.S. (1998). Attention deficit disorder in college: Faculty and students [Guide]. Cabin John, MD: National Center for Law and Learning Disabilities. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED422699)
17.
Lovitt, T.C., & Horton, S.V. (1987). How to develop study guides. Journal of Reading, Writing andLearning Disabilities, 3, 333—343.
18.
Lovitt, T.C., & Horton, S.V. (1994). Strategies for adapting science textbooks for youth with learning disabilities. Remedial and Special Education , 15(2), 105—116.
19.
March, T. (1998). Why WebQuests? An introduction. Retrieved January 20, 2005, from http://www.ozline.com/webquests/intro.html
20.
Mastropieri, M.A., Scruggs, T.E., & Graetz, J.E. (2003). Reading comprehension instruction for secondary students: Challenges for struggling students and teachers. Learning Disability Quarterly, 26(2), 103—114.
