Synopsis

In this workshop, we will:
A. Learn the basics of what a “Wiki” is and how to set one up for use in a course. (Easier than you think!)
B. Demonstrate the value of Wiki in inspiring participation and learning in large classes.
C. Discuss the theory of harnessing Wiki for peer-to-peer learning and the role of the instructor.
               
                A Wiki is “a collection of web pages designed to enable anyone who accesses it to contribute or modify content.” That is according to Wikipedia, by far the most well known “Wiki” on the Worldwide Web. Educators around the world have struggled to come to grips with Wikipedia and the Internet in general as a source of easily available but often dubious information. This workshop provides insights in to how to harness the power of Wiki platforms for participatory learning; not only to make students more aware of both the potential and pit-falls of the medium, but also to facilitate and inspire active peer-to-peer learning and teacher-student interactions in a large class setting. While drawing on the examples and lessons learned from Wiki used in sociology courses, we will discuss modes of Wiki use for modules in other disciplines both within and beyond the Arts and Social Sciences.

                Wiki platforms are different in important ways from other somewhat better known internet-based interactive platforms, such as discussion forums, blogs, and the like. During the 2008-2009 academic year, A/P Thompson incorporated Wiki into three courses (a graduate course of 10 students and undergraduate courses of 68 and 145 students). The workshop will include practical advice on how to set up the architecture of the Wiki for maximum effectiveness and reflections based on practical experience of what works and does not work in using the Wiki platform, especially for large classes.

                While there are constraints and barriers to the use of Wiki (including the time instructors and students need to take to learn the medium), the payoffs can be enormous. Wiki provide much deeper access into students’ involvement and understanding of course materials. They allow the instructor to engage the students much more directly than lecture or tutorial (discussion group) formats. And those who have used Wiki attest that they substantially add to learning, including valuable contributions from students which would be unlikely to surface otherwise.

Participants are encouraged to browse the following Wiki before attending the workshop:
SC2220: Gender Studies (Sem 2, 2008-09) http://sc2220.wetpaint.com/
SC2218: Anthropology (Sem 1, 2008-09) http://sc2218.wetpaint.com/
SC6214: Gender, Culture and Society (Sem 1, 2008-09) http://sc6214.wetpaint.com/

Registration is closed.