1. A Wiki Guide for Teachers
Adapted by Julie
Spang, original
presentation by
Colleen Finnegan

2. What is a Wiki?
 Wiki is derived from the Hawaiian word
“wiki-wiki”, which means quick
 It is a web site that allows users to add
and edit content. In essence, wikis are
online writing spaces that encourage
everyone to contribute

3. What are the Educational Benefits?
 Promotes asynchronous communication and
collaboration
 Emphasizes student-centered learning
 Encourages socially constructed knowledge
 Facilitates teamwork
 Aids reading and writing skills
 Great motivational tool
 Advocates creativity

4. How Can Wikis Be Used in the
Classroom?
 Create e-portfolios of class work
 Online journals
 Debate topics
 Collaborative projects
 Share resources and class notes
 Distribute student materials

5. Issues in Wiki Use
 “Open editing” allows anyone to alter, add,
or delete information on the site.
Inappropriate content or vandalism could
be a problem
 Safety concerns regarding students ’
personal information
 Accuracy of information

6. Solutions and Considerations
 You can decide the security levels for your wiki.
It can be set to only allow authorized members
of your group to read or modify content
 Personal information, such as full names and
addresses should not be published
 Wikis should be monitored for accuracy and
inappropriate content
 Information that was modified or deleted can be
easily restored

7. How Do You Create a Wiki?
 The main educational wiki providers
are Wikispaces, PBwiki, and Wetpaint
 The process is quick and easy. Enter your
name, password, e-mail address, and
select wiki type “education.”

8. How to Introduce Wikis to Your
Students
 Have parents and students sign an acceptable
use policy.
 Materials should be supplied to parents
explaining what a wiki is and what it will be used
for in class
 Get parental permission
 Conduct a lesson on digital citizenship
 Discuss social responsibility and accountability
 Outline netiquette guidelines