The Effect of WebQuests on Grade 11 Reading Comprehension and Student Perceptions of WebQuests
Aisha Saeed Al-Shamisi

Abstract
Governments, educators and the public often believe that combining English language with information technology skills is important to be successful (Tuan, 2011). WebQuestsare a framework for learner-centered instruction in teaching English as a foreign language when using Internet resources. This study investigated the effect of WebQuests on Grade 11 reading comprehension in a secondary school in the UAE. It also investigated perceptions of WebQuests as a study tool. A quasi-experimental research design was used with control and experimental groups. In addition, a Likert scale questionnaire examined perceptions of WebQuests. An analysis of co-variance (ANCOVA) and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The results indicated a statistically significant improvement in reading by the experimental group. Additionally, positive attitudes were reported towards WebQuests. Students felt that WebQuests enhanced collaboration, language skills, reading and higher order thinking skills. Finally, recommendations for further studies will also be discussed in this paper.

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