Working with Multiple Objectives: Using a Webquest to Teach Research Skills, Critical Thinking and Academic Writing Skills Simultaneously

Mark Brooke

National University of Singapore

ABSTRACT

Singaporean English language education in tertiary settings is increasingly evolving due to technology use. Advances in technology are enabling lecturers to implement a diverse and complex curriculum and strive for the teaching of multiple objectives. The quality of internet sources and the ubiquity and asynchronous nature of technology can provide students with learning experiences in and outside of the classroom. This enables them to work at their own pace and focus on their own needs making the outcome more student-driven. This presentation will examine a strategy from a sample academic writing module at the Writing Unit, a satellite of the CELC, NUS, which exemplifies this. Based on the outcomes of empirical research conducted by the author, the use of webquests to teach research, critical thinking and academic writing skills simultaneously will be explored. It is hoped that this chapter will add to current practices using technology for teaching and learning in higher education and further practitioner knowledge in this realm

KEYWORDS

Higher education; ubiquitous and asynchronous nature of technology; multi-dimensional curriculum; research skills; critical thinking skills; academic writing skills