Wikis

Hi all,

This week I learnt about and made a Wiki.
http://s0140677elearning.wetpaint.com/

A Wiki is a similar to a Blog and a Web page, as an individual or group can post information and images on-line that can be viewed by others. Where a Wiki is different is that the content can be edited by those who have a differing view or want to contribute additional information.

This feature creates a digital tool that, if used well, can promote the evolution of communal knowledge, wisdom and information. Wikis can encourage debate through sharing differing ideas and the extension of understanding as learners begin to comprehend how knowledge is complex and dynamic.

The communal nature of this tool also leaves it open to misuse. Sites are vulnerable to people (intentionally or unintentionally) editing information to be misleading, deceptive or incorrect. It is for this reason that the most well known Wiki, Wikipedia, can not be used as a reliable and definitive source of information. This issue may be minimised by using a Wiki in a controlled and restricted environment such as in a Virtual Classroom on the Learning Place.

A Learning Manager could use the process of collaborative learning through Wikis in many different situations. '50 Ways to Use a Wiki' outlines some interesting and inspiring purposes for a Wiki including: class presentations, class books, a glossary, collect data and class encyclopedias.

I created my first Wiki by posting an old lesson plan and asking to get feedback. If constructive advice is given, this could be a great learning tool for teachers to develop their skills. I found that setting up the Wiki was an easy process but I had considerable difficulty with the layout functions. This would be very frustrating and time consuming for younger students.

Wikis, if used in a safe controlled environment, could be an excellent learning tool for both teachers and their students.

Until later,

Lynn