Using WebQuest in Medical Education

Abstract

Introduction: Today modern teaching and learning approaches in medical education have received considerable attention. This paper aims to introduce WebQuest as a new method of inquiry-based learning through the use of Internet. Also its application in medical sciences education in general, and especially nursing education is explained. Methods: To find articles related to the WebQuest topic, the popular databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Nursing Consult, CINAHL, Web of Knowledge were searched using WebQuest related keywords. Very few medical articles were found, and there was no research article published in Iran. Results: WebQuest is a new method of student-centered, inquiry-based learning which uses computer technology to engage and motivate students individually or collaboratively in exploring, analyzing, and synthesizing data to construct a new understanding or meaning. WebQuests, as a student-centered activity, enhance and facilitate higher order cognitive skills, including analysis, synthesis, evaluation and judgment, critical thinking. They also cultivate students’ exploratory and problem solving mentality. Based on constructivist learning theory and inquiry learning, WebQuests involve learners in collaborative learning process and group projects. There is a strong link between WebQuests and multi-media techniques which provide significant opportunity for utilizing internet resources in teaching and learning experiences. Conclusion: It seems the concept of WebQuest is still less known both general and higher education, and particularly in medical education in Iran. Introducing this method in medical education which is based on new approaches of teaching and learning processes can provide a different view and encourage students to learn more effectively, deeply, and indelibly