Wiki Creation and Help


 

  Click here for cool tools and help creating your wiki

Wiki Help

 

 

Sample Glog

 

Sample Slide

Wiki Guidelines

  1. Wikis are a collaborative effort (as seen in the history) --

Several participants have contributed. Wikis are collaborative. Each person brings their strengths and contributes things that they are good at to the project.

  1. Wikis have visual appeal

Graphics are used as needed and add to the message. Graphics are not distracting and used where needed to further explain a topic. It does not look cluttered.

  1. Wikis are Organized to help the reader identify and manage information resources.

A table of contents is used, headings and underlines are used appropriately.

  1. Wikis include hyperlinks to sources where applicable.

An effective wiki hyperlinks sources and gives readers additional information about the topic. Many "academic" people tend to not trust wikis because information is often unsubstantiated.  You must include a variety of hyperlinks to be considered an effective source of information. As people follow your hyperlinks, they will begin to look at the information you've linked to. They will learn that you are an authority and that you've "done your homework." Make sure that you have checked your hyperlinks and that they work.  When hyperlinking to a source is not an option, be sure to include a works cited to legitimize your work.

  1. Wikis use original, intelligent wording.

  An effective wiki summarizes information but never copies it! (Cite your sources!!!) Keep your wiki professional and appropriate for an academic audience. Also, keep in mind that your wiki may be read by a global audience.

Optional but beneficial wiki traits

  1. Multi-sensory tools are used

The use of sound and/or video involves the wiki reader more through the increased engagement of hearing and sight. When it is used effectively, it can boost you into the hall of fame because you have more thoroughly engaged and taught your reader about your subject.

  1. Cutting edge tools are used within the wiki.

Pioneers are often recognized for their ability to venture into new places that others are afraid of. Our wiki pioneers will be recognized as they learn about new technology and integrate it into their page. These technologies include RSS Feeds, video, podcasts, and any other new Web 2.0 technology that we come across. Be the first and be unafraid!  You can include computer files, images, videos, etc. Creating an organizational structure for the content is an important part if the project.  There are many web 2.0 tools you can utilize to make your wiki a truly dynamic and creative  learning environment.  Consider glogster, wordle, animoto, picnik, blabberize, and more!!  Just also remember that time management is a concern so you cannot spend too much time learning new technologies if you are to finish your project before the year ends!

 

Each of you have the privilege and responsibility of making the classroom wiki for this project. Make good decisions!