I was not well versed in the Wikipedia saga before reading this article. When I first started reading it, I was not sure that this philosophy of having multiple authors, continually modifying the topic was a valid form of research material. However, as I read on, it became clear to me that Wikipedia is not meant to be a sole source of research. It is a tool to activate readers to become more critical in their thinking. It can be used as a introduction to a research project, to establish an overview of the material, as well as allow the researcher to focus in on one or two subjects within the broader realm of material. It allows the researcher to pose questions against the article, spark their inquisitive mind and motivate them to discover more valid references.
It is a great tool for developing critically thinking minds, however, this practice requires very explicit instruction by the teacher. It can not be assumed that they understand what it means to question the material, and verify the information. The teacher needs to model this by leading them to the references of the article, and reviewing some of the sites to ensure the validity of the reference. They also need to stop during the reading of the article to ask questions about what is taking place, and have the ability and skills to research their questions for further insight into the material.
Another piece of Wikipedia that seems to provide some positive reaction, as we discussed within our group, is the opportunity for the students to add a piece of writing to an article. There are guidelines that need to be followed, but that would provide guidance and direction for the writing project. It would require them to learn how to write, edit and rewrite appropriately for this particular type of work. For many students, this would be an exciting endeavor, knowing that what they have to say is important enough to be published.
Moving forward with caution. Great ideas for the right age group - but specific instruction should be done early so that students thoroughly understand the limitations of Wikipedia and the exciting possibilities of building information on wikispace or class wikis.
ReplyDeletePaula, you stressed a great point in which students need to know. "Wikipedia is not meant to be a sole search for their research." It is a great tool to spring board a discussion on critical thinking and how to evaluate and questions the materials presented. Which is appropriate for the right grade level and needs to explicitly taught. If students must be developmentally capable of higher level critical thinking skills, do you think elementary students should not be allowed to use wikipedia as a reference tool?
ReplyDeleteI think Wikipedia should be used in elementary classes, however, it should be introduced as a whole group activity, with explicit directions on the usage. We need to expose students to these situations with strong guidance and modeling at a young age, so that they will be better equipped for their future in technology.
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