Ch 4   Wikis

I used to think that wikis were not very accurate, but if Apple is calling Wikipedia one of the most accurate encyclopedias out there, then I guess they are legit.  I guess I assumed there was a lot of people posting their opinion as fact, but because everyone is a potential editor, whatever false information gets posted, usually gets corrected by those who are more knowledgeable on that subject matter.  The fact that everyone is an editor really empowers students.  I've found that most kids love that feeling of control and responsibility.  In addition, when writers and researchers know that their writing is going to be viewed and critiqued by numerous others, they are more apt to take their work seriously and make sure that they "cross their Ts and dot their Is". 

I could definitely see myself using a Wiki page for a book discussion in ELA or a research project in Social Studies.  At first, I would definitely want to limit the access to my students.  As we become more familiar and confident with the process, I would try opening it up for all to see on the net.  I would encourage other 5th grade teachers to direct their students to the blogs so that my students could see what feedback/revision suggestions might be applicable.  The 5th grade team would create a network of revisionists, and I would probably mandate that everyone comments or edits a certain number of Wikis for a participation grade.