Thing # 8

After reviewing websites explaining the origination and uses of Wikis, I became convinced that a Wiki could be an incredible learning tool for students, even students as young as my second graders. However, in order for my students (or any students) to use this tool effectively, they would need guidance regarding the proper usage of Wikis and help in discovering some ways in which they can enhance learning.

Wikis have a variety of applications when it comes to giving students a means of practicing and sharing their writing. In my school, a literary magazine is published annually, displaying student writing samples and illustrations teachers have selected. Due to the fact that this is published in small book format, only a small percentage of the entire student body is represented in this magazine. However, if we were to develop a Wiki by which students could publish their writing samples, the doors of opportunity for more students to contribute would be open. This could inspire greater numbers of students to write to the best of their ability, knowing that the chance their work would be published had risen significantly.

In our classroom specifically, I would love to use a Wiki to help the students in creating writing pieces collaboratively. Often, I do this for the guided practice segment of my writing lessons; however, this activity involves writing the story for the students on our whiteboard as they share in a whole group setting. It would be wonderful to have them write their ideas for themselves, adding to one another's thoughts through the use of a Wiki.