WIKIS

     Over the past week, I have learned much about how useful wikis can be.  Beforehand I had a vague idea of what a wiki was from using Wikipedia occasionally, and following some of the past concerns over the last couple of years involving wikis and students. Yet more recently I learned through reading some published and professional articles how some educators are learning to embrace wikis and having them be a part of the educational process.  This was the extent of my knowledge. 

     I now know so much more than I did a week ago, and realize there is so much more I need to find out.  I am excited to learn more about wikis and plan on taking some online courses after my studies are complete.  Through this exercise I have seen some very helpful and effective wikis this past week.  Nearly all the wikis I explored were wonderful.  In the Resources for History Teachers Wiki, I could not help but think how useful this could be for teachers and students alike.  If I were a history teacher, several of my assignments would be to look up specific information on educational wikis such as this one which would be an excellent extension to any history curriculum.  I absolutely loved the fun and helpful Daring Librarian Wiki that helped faculty and staff with their media endeavors.  The illustrations and pictures were colorful and creative and the explanations helpful and often humorous for any teacher who needed specific directions concerning media matters in that school.   From the Kern’s High School Wiki I saw the many different helps a librarian could post to help her faculty and students.  I especially liked the librarian’s own video of how to check out an e-book from your phone.  This past week I visited an excellent library, Albion Middle School, in Sandy.  The Librarian, Marianne Bates, also had a very helpful library wiki for her students and teachers.  It is titled the Albion Library Wiki. 

     From what I have seen, I am very motivated to learn how to create a wiki of my own.  At this time, I may only be doing the very basics, but I plan on investigating this resource thoroughly and using it in the future.