I first looked at the Teacher First Website as a way to look at some interesting lessons on using a wiki in a multitude of subjects, but as I continued to explore the site I stumbled across something great- an answer to my question Why A Wiki? The first thing the site provides is a mini look into the world of theory and research that support why the wiki format would be beneficial for classroom use, and I mean mini look – only two sentences. But however short their examination was one sentence really stuck with me, “Build on the best of Bloom: Students use synthesis and evaluation constantly and consistently when they work on a wiki”. I thought this was a great point, because students can build connections between new and old information as well as evaluate and synthesize what they are working on through the wiki format. If used correctly I can definitely see how wiki could be a tool for students to compile and link their knowledge.
As a writing teacher, I also appreciated the emphasis on that wikis should be used to reinforce creativity and more importantly the idea that writing is never done. Because of the wikis open editable format students can continue to rewrite, revise, and edit their work as well as give comments, suggestions, and help to their classmates. I am currently using the wiki in my 8th grade English class, and I having students rewrite parts of Julius Caesar with a modern twist. They are learning how to read and interpret Shakespeare and also are learning how to apply the themes to a more modern context. A bonus from this project is that students have begun to see that they have the ability to continue to change the things from their rewrites that aren’t quite correct after we discuss them in class. The students really have enjoyed this project and have liked the idea that they can revise and help edit their other group members so easily. The Teacher First Website also focuses on this idea that for teaching writing this format makes the revision process a lot easier and more reflective. Students can help each other as well as edit their own work, but with the wiki I am using they are also e-mailed when something is changed on their wiki, so they can see and approve any corrections made by their group members.
I also thought that the Teacher First Website gives a great list of questions to ask yourself about your class and teaching style to determine whether or not using a wiki is for you and will work in your classroom. I am beginning to think the question should be why not wiki, instead of why wiki? I want to continue my examination of both questions and I think my next blog will be examining more concrete educational research on the topic, but for this week I think I have presented some very interesting articles and websites that lead me to believe wikis are worth incorporating into the curriculum as long as you do so with a solid plan and a clear goal about what you want your students to learn from the experience. So if you are interested in the wiki question or want some ideas of how to use a wiki in your classroom check out the Teacher First Website and all their information on wikis. They een have a great section on how to set-up your wiki including talking to parents and getting administrative approval.
Teacher First Website: Why A Wiki http://www.teachersfirst.com/content/wiki/whywiki.cfm
Teacher First Website: Wiki Ideas For the Classroom http://www.teachersfirst.com/content/wiki/wikiideas2.cfm
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2 comments:
I agree with you. I too like the idea that using wiki’s will “build on the best of Bloom” (TeacherFrst, 2006). I am just finding that you HAVE to teach them how do be critical thinkers. Yesterday, our first day creating our wiki – everyone want to post “factual” information (we are studying US Presidents). The best part for me so far (as you mentioned in you last post) is the collaboration. My students wanted “ownership” initially and felt threatened that someone could change their work but quickly bought into the idea that “we are smarter collectively” after seeing some of the “work” had already been done.
Megan,
I think the question "why not wikis" is much better suited for the current situation. Students and newer generation are more enthusiastic to adapt to newer technologies. Sometimes you learn more about latest gizmos and techniques from students which actually cultivates a more interactive environment for learning! I think you and your class' experiment with wikis should be a great learning experience for all involved!
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