You Can Wiki if You Want To

Really, it's just that easy!  Creating a wiki is easy. Editing a wiki is easy.  Sharing a wiki is easy.  Viewing a wiki is easy.  So, why isn't everyone using them??  Good question.

Well, the best answer I can come up with is that many of us in education are "digital immigrants."  We didn't grow up using online tools.  And, while most of us have embraced the convenience and instant gratification of email and the internet, we aren't quite sure what to think of wikis, blogs, and other offerings of Web 2.0.  We're quite comfortable with good ol' Web 1.0, thank you very much.

Unfortunately, that's just not good enough.  Surprisingly, it's actually not about what WE are comfortable with--it's those students; you know, the whole reason we are in education!  They are growing up in this digital age, texting before they can even spell properly; using computer keyboards without learning proper hand placement on the keyboard like we learned in high school typing class--the horror!  And if we want to reach them, engage them, and guide them, then we must embrace the prickly porcupine known as Web 2.0, including Wikis.

Can wikis be used in the Media Center?  Absolutely!  The ability to have many students contribute can give them ownership of the media program.  Involvement in projects related to the media program, books, and technology can inspire them and engage them.  This can instill in them the value of the media program as an integral part of the school.

In addition, using wikis to collaborate with teachers can open up for them new possibilities for instruction.  The flat textbook gives way to the living, breathing instructional tool that is the wiki.  For example, using a wiki to create pathfinders for teachers and students to use can provide links to resources that might normally be overlooked.  I think it's pretty fair to say that if a media specialist does anything to make a teacher's job easier and increase effectiveness, then he or she becomes an instructional partner and a valued and necessary part of a school community.  In these days of budget cuts, we as media professionals need to be seen doing more, not less.  The school needs to believe what we already know to be true: that they CANNOT function without us!

Perhaps a drawback to wikis may be that they do take some time to create and maintain.  The wiki user should take this into consideration when planning and preparing for instruction.  That being said, however, the time spent is typically well worth it when the results are presented and utilized.

The wikis examined in the readings gave some great examples for use.  Posting pictures of interesting things happening in the media center is a great way to build interest and enthusiasm.  Providing helpful links all in one place is a great time-saver which can make it easier for students to complete assignments.  The media wiki becomes an invaluable tool for students and teachers.

One thing I have noticed which happens frequently is that wiki editors insert links but don't select for the links to open in a new window or tab.  Then, when a user clicks on the links, they leave the wiki and may have difficulty getting back to it.  I have actually experienced this on our MEDT class wiki.

I see the point about wikis becoming "storage cabinets."  The best way to prevent this is regularly visit and update the wiki.  It has to become a regular part of planning, with scheduled time (or snatched time) to work on it.

So...what are you waiting for?  It's time to get your wiki on!  Don't be afraid!  Okay, you can be afraid, but don't let that stop you.  Take your cue from the students you teach.  Technology isn't going away.  It's here to stay.  Get on the train, or get left behind.  Catch the wave, or drown.  I've bought my ticket.  I've grabbed my board.  Jump in...the water's fine! :)