Using WebQuests to Facilitate Task-based English Reading Instruction for Graduate Students

Abstract

The WebQuest is a process involving students using the Web to learn about a topic or solve a problem. The WebQuest as an instructional tool has gained popularity in the education field across subjects and settings, and is generally well received by both teachers and students. This paper presents an instructional design integrating WebQuests into teaching English reading to graduate students (non-English majors) in a Chinese university in attempt to examine the efficacy of this particular design, that is, to examine whether using WebQuests facilitates task-based English reading instruction for graduate students. This instructional design was implemented in a setting where the task-based teaching method was adopted through the entire course. After three months’ implementation, a survey was conducted on students’ responses to WebQuests utilization. Results indicate that students’ perception is that WebQuests facilitates their learning. The interview with the instructor also reveals alignment with the students’ responses.