Collaborative writing can be used in many different forms and styles. One of the styles is called a Wiki. Wikis are web pages that can be collaboratively edited by a group of people. They can be used to put up ideas and thoughts on a particular subject. One of the most popular Wikis today is Wikipedia.
Wiki usage:
Wikis can be used to do research papers and multimedia projects which are conducted by a group of people. Wiki tools allow a person to attach images, files or links to websites. In many classrooms today teachers use Wikis to create a shared knowledgebase in classroom that helps students learn on a particular topic. Wikis are able to keep track of usage, statistics, and log on time. That way a teacher knows precisely how much effort a student has put into his/her work. Wikis are also used to debate on a certain topic and are provided with free writing.
Student issues with using Wikis:
· Students who are technology illiterate, their work does not represent their true colors on assignments.
· Students are unwilling to contribute to wikis because they lack confidence in their writing.
· Students don’t enjoy using wikis because they feel like it’s too much work and prefer the traditional assignments.
http://writingwiki.org/default.aspx/WritingWiki/For%20Teachers%20New%20to%20Wikis.html
http://lts.brandeis.edu/teachlearn/support/guides/collaborative-writing/index.html
http://www.wikinomics.com/blog/uploads/wiki_collaboration.JPG
I think Wiki's are great for gaining knowledge on certain subjects. They give you alot of information that is easy to get to. You don't have to click a bunch of links. I just hate how you can't use them for school projects because teachers do not agree with the informaton that is presented, as it could be faulty. I really enjoyed the post though, great job.
ReplyDeleteWiki's are great with researching a topic, however I would never use them as a notable or noteworthy source for a professional work. Granted, many of these Wiki's are sited by respected professionals, however many remain incorrect by biased sources. I believe the bottom line is to use caution in using Wiki's
ReplyDeleteI didn't know Wiki was a separate term other than the popular website Wikipedia.org. I use that website often when looking for a quick answer; however, I agree with ScBinnin, that it is not a credible source that should be used for term papers and important research.
ReplyDeleteLast semester I tried pbwiki with my students for peer editing and many couldn't figure it out. It was a bit disastrous, but I won't give up. It is like blogging. Once people get used to the technology, it makes life easier, especially collaborative writing where all the comments from your peers are on the same page. I added a visual, Ervin.
ReplyDelete