WebQuests and collaborative learning in teacher preparation: a Singapore study

Abstract

This research project aimed to introduce WebQuests to train special education preservice teachers in Singapore. The following research questions were posed: (1) Does the use of WebQuests in teacher preparation promote special education teacher understanding on Universal Design for Learning in accommodating students with diverse learning needs? (2) Are WebQuests useful tools that can enhance teacher’s higher-order thinking, engagement, creativity, and collaborative learning skills? (3) Does the use of WebQuests in teacher preparation foster stronger desires for teachers to integrate Information and Communication Technology in teaching and learning? Seventy-five preservice special education teachers responded to a survey questionnaire after experiencing WebQuest developed by the course instructor in teacher preparation program in Singapore. The majority of teachers indicated strong preference for WebQuest activities over traditional teacher-directed learning methods.