Overview

Derived from the Hawaiian word for “fast”, wikis can be used as a source for gathering information quickly to assist in the brainstorming process when a student needs comprehensive background knowledge of a topic (Clyde, 2005). Wikis should not be formally cited in written material, but rather used during the brainstorming process to become familiar with key words and find reliable sources.

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Research by Ducate, Anderson and Moreno (2011) concluded that Wikipedia (a very common wiki) was a valid learning tool that was comprehensive and easy to use for students completing a language project. Students reported a positive attitude towards its use in providing a comprehensive understanding of material, grammar, and vocabulary; which in turn can be used as an English as a Second Language tool (Ducate, Anderson, & Moreno, 2011; Arnold, Ducate, & Kost, 2009). Kimmerle, Moskaliuk and Cress (2011) concluded that using Wikipedia as a learning tool to build on prior knowledge was a valid educational method. Educators need to specify their learning goals when using wikis and keep in mind that each individual begins the brainstorming process with a different level of prior knowledge that may impact future knowledge building (Kimmerle, Moskaliuk, & Cress, 2011).

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Research Rating: Due to the experimental nature of the information cited in this description this information is to be trusted as valid and reliable.

 

Advantages:

• User-friendly, easily accessed, low-cost

• Photos and videos are included with information

• Some Wikis have built in scalable language technology

• Information can be translated in different languages

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Disadvantages:

• Not all information may be peer-reviewed

• Students may become distracted when searching material

 

To Consider

• Requires internet access

• Students must be trained