Web 2.0 - Part V: Wikis

It can be a time-consuming process to make a webpage for classroom projects or instruction. TeacherWeb uses forms that simplify the process, but the format only allows students to be consumers of the information. Web 2.0 is about the community of users contributing to the content. Typically, the more users involved the richer the content. The word wiki is derived from the Hawaiian word wiki-wiki meaning quick. On the Internet, a wiki is a webpage that can be created quickly. Wikis generally have the following characteristics:

• Pages are edited within the web browser
• Open for anyone to edit (some require a shared password)
• Content is connected with hyperlinks throughout the wiki
• Edits can be "rolled back" to previous versions

Technology has moved society into the Information Age, but many of our educational practices were designed for the Industrial Age. Outside of school, how often is someone asked to research, write, and present without collaboration? A wiki empowers a group of students to collect, discuss, revise, and evaluate their collaborative efforts. The tools in a wiki give teachers control so the content can be monitored, guided, and assessed.

I could continue writing about wikis and how they can be used in the classroom, but experiencing the technology is the best way to learn. I've set up a sample wiki using my favorite wiki tool: PBwiki (the PB stands for peanut butter... because it is as easy as making a peanut butter sandwich). The PBwiki team designed templates specifically for the education community and understands the needs of teachers. Take a look at the "NP Schools" demonstration site and feel free to contribute and edit content. All you need is the password: trojans

If you have a project idea you think might work well with this technology, please feel free to contact me. You'll be surprised how a project can be developed so wiki-wiki.