Using Wikis Well: Preparation, Implementation, and Engagement (2 of 2)

In my previous post I explored how wikis can be a helpful tool in fostering interest in and engagement with the study of the Bible. You might be wondering how much work is involved in the use of wikis, and how such a tool can be integrated into the learning experience. With this in mind I want to highlight a few issues that need to be kept in mind if wikis are to be used well.

One of the first things to consider is how a wiki will fit into the larger framework of your class. Will it be assessed? Will it be an ongoing initiative or the focus of a particular section? These types of questions will guide how the wiki will be used in your particular context.

Preparation

Initially you’ll need to take some time to acquaint yourself with the world of wikis. This may seem daunting at first, but a wiki is simply an online platform that allows for individual or group contributions and amendments. While there are a number of open-access wiki platforms that you can use, be aware that you might already have a wiki at your fingertips! Most virtual learning environments (VLE/LMSs such as Blackboard and Moodle) have wikis built into their functionality.

I tend to prefer using the wiki function within the VLE/LMS because it centralises the project alongside other aspects of the class and it gives the students a sense of security in that they are familiar with the platform, they understand the privacy settings, and so on. You will want to give yourself some time to become familiar with whatever platform you choose, as well as to set up the wiki itself and play around with its features so that you can ably guide the class in its use.

Assessment

Many leaders in technology-enhanced learning point out that assessment is important in e-learning endeavors. First, if students know they are not being assessed, they are less likely to take part, and this counteracts one of the great benefits of wikis, which is that they foster interest and engagement. Further, in my experience students put a good deal of work into these contributions—in part because they enjoy it, but also because they know their peers will see the fruits of their labor. It’s important to acknowledge the work that students put into these projects, and let them know this engagement is valued as part of their learning experience. There are numerous resources and rubrics available to help you think about assessment in relation to wikis.[1]

Implementation

There has been a good deal of debate in recent years about students as digital natives, and what we mean by digital literacy. Many of us have experienced this in our teaching. Students who are happy to use Wikipedia on a daily basis are unsettled by the suggestion that they might contribute to a project based on similar principles. This is often based on unfamiliarity, and so some care is needed in guiding students in their use of wikis and letting them know they can succeed. This may take some time and energy on the front end, but it will pay off in the end.

I give students instructions for using the wiki online and in hard copy, and I go through it with them several times in class (something you’ll need to account for in terms of time management). I also provide an example on the wiki of what a contribution might look like, to give the students a baseline from which to work. Finally, if students get in touch with questions or issues, it is best to address them promptly so they know that you value the project and their input to it.

 Engagement

If assessing the wiki, it might be helpful to have a due date or cut off point, and to think about ways of engaging the material with the class. I often dedicate a full class session (or two, depending on the size of the group) to exploring the wiki together as a class when contributions have been finished. I have students give a (very) short presentation of their contribution, and we engage with any related media. We also use this as a time to connect these issues to the subjects we are exploring in the class.

Finally, it’s important to give students meaningful feedback on their work. One of the nice features within wikis is that they allow you to see the evolution and development of a contribution, as well as to track individual student use of the platform. This gives you an idea of how and when the wiki has been used, a tool that can be particularly helpful when assessing group contributions.

Wikis are a Fantastic Tool…

…but like anything else, they need time and attention if they are to be used well. Giving due attention to preparation, implementation, and engagement is a step in the right direction.

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