How wikis can be an effective learning tool

Hi all,

Here is the link to my very first wiki page,
laurenparke84@wetpaint.com
Please feel free to jump on and add any comments.

"Wiki is a piece of server software that allows users to freely create and edit Web page content using any Web browser. Wiki supports hyperlinks and has a simple text syntax for creating new pages and cross links between internal pages on the fly." (What is Wiki? 2002)
Wiki is an online tool that is used to create a links between people and their ideas. It can be used instead of emails so all information can be collaborated and all members are able to log on and contribute.

I have recently set up my own wiki page asking for ideas to keep students engaged in learning. I found the setup process simple to follow and can now see how it can be an effective tool in the classroom. It is said that email is one of the most important collaborative tools and it usually serves as the communication backbone for all activities. By using web conference boards or chat programs students are able to collaborate and share their results (Kearsley & Shneiderman, 1999). Students are able to communicate with other group members by creating new ideas and changing already posted ideas regarding activities and assignments at school. When reading about Wikis and incorporating them in to students learning I was worried about the security. Through creating my own Wiki I have realised that in the setup process you can nominate who can log on to your Wiki site.

As this resource can be monitored by the teacher and parents, Wikis can become a very useful tool when students are working in collaborative environments. It will keep students engaged as it is a new way of keeping in contact with group members. I will be using this resource in my classroom as I can see how effective it will be.

References:
What is Wiki? 2002 viewed on 29 July 2009 http://wiki.org/wiki.cgi?WhatIsWiki
Kearsley, G., & Shneiderman, B. (1999). Engagement Theory:. Retrieved July 10, 2009, from http://home.sprynet.com/~gkearsley/engage.htm