Changing from a traditional approach to learning: teachers’ perceptions of introducing WebQuests into mathematics and science classrooms in Qatar

Several studies have identified stress factors that teachers might experience in changing from a traditional approach to a more student-centred inquiry-based learning (IBL) approach. In this study, we report on teachers’ perceptions following professional development (PD) that introduced WebQuests as a didactic tool alongside ongoing classroom support into Qatari mathematics and science classrooms with students grades 4 to 8. The findings suggested that the use of WebQuests as a didactic tool provided a structure for many teachers that supported a change in teaching towards a student-oriented approach. Nevertheless, some stress factors remained, in relation to control of learning, managing time and classroom behaviour and the integration of IT