Wiki+Guidelines

=Basic Wiki Guidelines=

Before creating a wiki, determine what it will be used to teach or store. Will it be:


 * an instructional guide?
 * a media repository for videos, podcasts, etc.?
 * a collaborative student workspace? 
 * a student portfolio?
 * an online/collaborative notetaking site?
 * a digital word wall?
 * a science lab data bank?
 * used to connect or collaborate with other classrooms, countries, experts, etc.?
 * a jig-sawed reading summary?
 * for other uses?


 * Here are some general rules to follow:**
 * Show 'Wikis in Plain English' video to the students before using wikis
 * Explain that wikis require 'social responsibility'
 * Explain that social responsibility calls for everyone to protect the wiki's content
 * Explain that edits are made to add fact, not opinion
 * Be sure that your directions are clear and concise.
 * Include step-by-step directions for multi-task assignments.
 * Have students report progress at the end of each session.
 * Include a rubric for the assignment
 * Discuss the assignment and ask if there are questions
 * Be sure that students are trained in how to use wikis before the assignment begins
 * Start with simple tasks, then increase assignment complexity
 * Students must be responsible for their part only, making it necessary to collaborate
 * Restrict permissions if setting up individual student pages ( $20/ month )