About+Wikis

=What is a wiki? = A wiki is a **web page that can be edited**. The word wiki comes from the Hawaiian word "wiki" meaning fast. Wikis are **ideal for** **collaboration** and **information sharing**. Wikipedia is the largest wiki in the world. For a brief introduction to wikis, check out the [|Wikis in Plain English] on YouTube (at home, of course!).

=How do I edit a wiki? = Want to learn about how to edit a wiki? It's as easy as typing a Word document. Simply click "Edit this Page," type your comments, and click "Save." Take a quick [|tour of wikispaces].

=Why use wikis? = The benefits of using wikis in the classroom are many. Wikis **build greater connections between new and old knowledge** by allowing student-created structure for information and ideas. Using wikis **increases the use of synthesis and evaluation** by developing creativity skills, especially elaboration and fluency. Through collaboration, wikis **develop interpersonal and communication skills**, especially consensus-building and compromise, and improve and refine teamwork skills. Wikis **stimulate discussion and metacognition**, and **increase engagement** of all students. Wikis improve the most challenging phase of the writing process, revision. Students can accept edits and consider other ways of saying things through the input of others or the instructor. Wikis allow the teacher and students to view the writing process in action.

Applications in the Classroom
Wikis can be used in the classroom in a variety of different ways. Some examples are to: =    Examples of educational wikis   =
 * Provide a space for free writing
 * Debate course topics
 * Share resources
 * Maintain a journal
 * Have students collaborate on documents, topics, etc.
 * Discuss topics of interest
 * Post assignments for class
 * Maintain vocabulary list

=General Rules for Working with Wikis =
 * When finished, remember to add your first name and last initial so everyone knows who posted the comment. Using a first name and an initial for the last name is good practice in education, especially when working with students.
 * To separate comments, add a blank line between comments or change the color of your text.
 * Remember to save your work!

= = =Did you know...= Educators can get a [|ad-free wikispace for free]?!!