The role of WeQuests in learning a foreign/second language?

     WebQuest is defined as “an inquiry-oriented activity, which some or all of the information that learners interact with comes from resources on the Internet." (Dodge, 1995). It is designed to use learners' time well, focus on using information rather than looking for it, and support learners' thinking at the levels of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.

     The role of the teacher is to design attractive WebQuest which help the students understanding the lesson, and to give them a clear idea about what she/he wants to teach them. The teacher should be act as a guide and facilitator the process to the students. The role of the student is to learn what is WebQuest and be active participants. Class environment should be interesting and motivating student. Also teacher has to make sure that the classroom is provided with required tools such as computers and internet.

     The use of WebQuest in language teaching has several advantages. It improves the students’ higher-order thinking such as analysis, creativity, or criticism rather than just acquiring information. WebQuest Support critical thinking and problem solving through authentic assessment, scaffolding, and technology integration. WebQuest can also use for project-based learning. WebQuest allows students to complete authentic projects and use technology to find and present information. In addition, WebQuest involves collaborative learning where students engaged in constructivist activities resulting in shared learning experiences and new knowledge.

     As an EFL teacher, I will use WebQuest with my students because it will increase the students’ motivation. It enhances the development of transferable skills. In addition, it Provide a situation in which students acquire information, debate issues, participate in meaningful discussions, solve problems and collaborate with their peers. In my opinion, WebQuest is a useful tool to be used in TEFL/TESL.

Evaluating Randall's ESL Cyber Listening Lab

     Randall's ESL cyber listening lab is a commercial site that supposed to enhance and support learning listening skill. The site is divided into three columns. The first column consists of advertisement related language learning, culture videos, website information, teacher resources and Randall’s pick for language learning from Amazon. The second column has the contents. On the top, some of the sites designed by the same author are mentioned. After that we find the content which mostly is mostly listening materials. These materials are divided into six sections, General   listening quizzes, basic listening quizzes, listening quizzes for academic purposes, 20 minutes - vocabulary lessons, language learning and life tips, long conversation with real video. The last column has an instruction to use this site. This website is designed by Randall Davis . He provides his E-mail , twitter account and facebook page so people can contact with him if they need .

     The purpose of Randall’s ESL site is to enhance English listening skill for any level of difficulties and communication skill. The site contains what we expected to enhance the listening skill. It provides different types of listening activities like conversations, listening quizzes, etc. according to the level of students and deals with functional language skills and everyday life situations and topic. Also, the site has vocabulary lessons and activities which help the learners in preparation for the listening activities. So the purpose of the site is clear and the contents reflect its purpose. Moreover, the site provides useful links to other website. Randall’s ESL site contents expand the experience of the user, but it does not promote any social biases to gender, race, religion, etc.  The site offers an advertisement that does not overshadow the content and distract or annoy the learners.

     The design of this website is good but not great. At the right side there is some white space that could be exploited in a better way. The colors used are mostly light mauve and yellow. It gives the impression that this website is not professional but when you go through the content you find it is really good. The text is easy to read but not to everyone. Some people will be distracted because of the colors. The page does open in a reasonable way without problems. The design elements of the site don’t hinder the accessibility of the site. Students and teachers can use the website for free with no login requirement.

     The content is easy to use. It is easy to access even for those who are hearing impaired. The website has enough information to make visiting useful and informative. The voice in audio records is very clear and each lesson has activities such as pre-listening, listening exercise, vocabulary and post- listening. Also, in each lesson it is clarified the learners' level, topic, and type of audio record, speakers, and length. Readers can easily download the  audio and there is a written form for the audio. There are a lot of links for Randall's other websites. It is clear and easy for learners to move from one website to another. In addition, Spelling and grammar are correct.  Also, we can navigate from page to related page easily without becoming lost. .. This website has a strong point. It is recommended for young and older adult use. It can be used at easy, medium, and difficult levels for beginner, intermediate, and advanced users. The material of this site are current and accurate.

     The site grade level is appropriate to be used in the language classroom for example teachers ask their students to complete certain exercises as classroom activities. The site is also ideal for Learner autonomy where learners engage in the listening activities on their own. The content is attractive for learners since it covers everyday life situation and topics of their needs.