{"id":31,"date":"2021-05-27T14:35:18","date_gmt":"2021-05-27T14:35:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.scavengerhunt.com\/discover\/?p=31&preview=true&preview_id=31"},"modified":"2021-07-13T15:40:08","modified_gmt":"2021-07-13T15:40:08","slug":"internet-scavenger-hunt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.scavengerhunt.com\/discover\/internet-scavenger-hunt\/","title":{"rendered":"How Does an Internet Scavenger Hunt Work?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Internet scavenger hunts\u2014they’re everywhere! These interesting tools have taken over online teaching and we can’t stop gushing about them. As your source for all things scavenger hunt-related, we’ll help you to understand the ins and outs of an internet scavenger hunt and learn what it takes to put together a terrific event. We’ve also included a list of tips and tricks, so you’ll be able to create an amazing online hunt in no time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is an internet scavenger hunt?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An internet scavenger hunt or CyberHunt is an online learning activity and game. Here, players search the internet to find clues and hints for questions. Participants are provided a list of questions, prompts, and virtual Easter eggs. Players must make their way through each clue to solve the puzzle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While this is the simple, classical definition of an internet hunt, the sky is the limit! Today, internet hunts are valuable learning tools in school. In addition, you can use them to learn something new and embark on an exciting hunt with your friends and family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How is it different from a virtual scavenger hunt?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A virtual scavenger hunt and an internet scavenger hunt may sound similar, but they\u2019re not<\/em> the same. Both require some amount of problem-solving, but there are some key differences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

 \u2022  On a virtual scavenger hunt, you\u2019ll answer riddles, puzzles, and trivia while home with your family or friends or on a video call with your loved ones. Although the instructions and some of the interactions are online, most challenges will require tasks to be done in person, in a physical location (even if it’s your home). For example, you might have to craft something out with paper and show it off on a video call. With virtual hunts, there’s more of an expectation of interaction and some physical activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

 \u2022  On an internet scavenger hunt, both the instructions and the challenges are online. In other words, you might be tasked with finding an answer to a history question posed in the form of a riddle. You can use online resources to complete the challenge. Questions can range from easy one-stop trivia questions or require you to find parts of the solution on different websites. You don’t have to be on a video call for these hunts\u2014it doesn’t matter where you are, as long as you have an internet-capable device.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Interested in a Virtual Scavenger Hunt?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If the idea of an in-home scavenger hunt<\/strong><\/a> appeals to you, try our epic adventures! Make memories right from home. All you need is an internet-ready device and your adventurous spirit. ScavengerHunt.com offers a selection of 20+ virtual adventures and over 80 challenges. Each 2-hour event is comprised of unique and exciting challenges that are sure to keep you entertained. Available for families, couples, or just about anyone, these experiences are great for a day (or night) in! You could even add a scavenger hunt party pack<\/a><\/strong> to compete against other households. Try one today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What makes internet scavenger hunts useful?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Internet scavenger hunts were first developed as a learning resource in the education world. Not only do they help in teaching students (both elementary and middle school) to use the internet, but they’re a fun way to mix things up in their lesson plans. Be it in-person or through distance learning, internet hunts can be used to encourage self-learning practices, even for students in their high school year. Besides, they’re a blast!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now you can use internet scavenger hunt activities with just about anybody. You can create a hunt for your children, or enjoy an adult hunt with your family and friends. We love these hunts because they’re inexpensive and hassle-free. All you need for these hunts is an internet connection. So grab some worksheets and pens, and get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How do I create an internet scavenger hunt?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Creating an internet scavenger hunt webquest is easy as pie. Here\u2019s what you need to know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Pick a theme and websites<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

First, pick a theme and template that are best suited for your hunt. If you’re an educator or parent, you can pick a topic to review before you introduce it in class. Additionally, you can also pick a topic that you\u2019d like the whole family to explore together. For example, if you\u2019re planning a vacation to a particular destination, create a treasure hunt centered around that city, popular landmarks, and history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next, make a list of the websites (list the web address accordingly) to source your questions. Common options include online encyclopedias, Google Maps, Google Scholar, and other academic links. Stick to verified and official sources to avoid confusion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Make a list of questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now, create your hunt by making a list of questions and an answer key. Check out our section on the type of internet hunts, so you can frame your questions accordingly. To up the ante, you can create printables with crossword puzzles or ciphers. Here, each answer will be an additional clue in the handout. The sky is the limit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While you’re at it, create some bonus clues and helping guides in case the players find it too difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Manage difficulty<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While framing the questions, try to hit the sweet spot in terms of difficulty level. An easy hunt may get over too quickly, while a difficult hunt can get frustrating. So, aim for questions at all levels. This way, you’ll be able to keep your audience engaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Set ground rules<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Send your list of questions to your participants. They may choose to answer them online (in a Google Form) or on paper. Decide on which websites are and aren’t allowed.  Your players can choose to solve clues individually or as a team. Our section on things to keep in mind has more relevant information. Make sure to answer questions and doubts before you begin your search engine hunt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Have fun!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is the most important part of planning an internet scavenger hunt! Whether your hunt is educational or just to pass the time, above all, it has to be enjoyable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Internet Scavenger Hunts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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 \u2022 Horizontal Scavenger Hunts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Horizontal hunts are simple hunts for beginners. They are ideal for younger children. Here, each clue points to a solution that can be accessed from the same website. For instance, if your hunt is about mushrooms and all the questions about mushrooms can be answered from the Wikipedia page, your hunt is horizontal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These hunts encourage players to read everything on a particular webpage. This will help them read up and retain necessary information. This is a great alternative to reading pages and pages of notes in class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

 \u2022 Vertical Scavenger Hunts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Vertical hunts are more complex but even more exciting than horizontal hunts. Here, answers to clues and questions are spread across multiple linked pages. The Wikipedia hunt is a great example of vertical hunts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each player is given a Wikipedia page and asked to click their way into an unrelated page. For instance, the players will be given a webpage on mushrooms and asked to find their way to a page about wedding cakes. They will have to strategize and think their way into finding  out how the two seemingly unrelated pages may be linked (Hint: mushrooms \u2013> truffles \u00e0 chocolate \u00e0 cake \u00e0 wedding cakes)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips on Hosting an Internet Scavenger Hunt<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n