What I’ve Learned About Wikis This Year

Jeff Shaw • Sherwood Elementary School • NICE meeting, 5/5/10

1. Wikis are relatively easy to set up, but there’s a learning curve.
• show reading wiki
• explain purpose
• explain set-up
• kids picked it up quickly

2. One page doesn’t fit all.

• explain evolution from single-page set-up to individual pages

3. Kids need direction.

• without it, kids would just rehash plot
• discuss weekly prompts

4. It pays to monitor.
• kids held accountable
• copy of all entries via email
• weekly checklist

5. You can’t monitor some things.

• internal mail system
• problems between students

6. It brings out the best in some kids.

• encourages some who are less likely to speak up
• some entries are very reflective
• tech-savvy kids take to online projects naturally (e.g. Glogster)

7. Wikis evolve over time.

• transition from single-page to indiv. pgs
• addition of teacher prompts and trivia questions

8. Wikis foster collaboration.

• other wiki projects: novel studies with RO
• requires good communication with colleagues

9. It’s a challenge to keep it fresh over the long haul.

• are wikis better suited for short projects?

10. I still have a lot to learn.

• looking to make improvements for next year
• expand use of wikis to other subject areas
• more project-specific wikis