WikiSpaces

= WikiSpaces As a Web2.0 Tool in Schools and Classrooms =



This page is designed to explain some of the many useful ideas for the Web 2.0 tool, Wikispaces in the classroom setting. A standard Wikispaces site is not only free to create, but it is also easy to manage. Wikispaces can be created for any subject for students of all grades and ages. A wiki site can also be used for parent-teacher communication. Essentially, with any topic which is presented, the teacher, students, and/or parents have access to the full conversation taking place. The video below will show you how to get started on your own WikiSpaces site!

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The use of Wikispaces is an excellent way to incorporate a different type of community into the classroom. Wikispaces provides the teacher with a forum to present reading material, problems to solve, or topics to discuss while also allowing students to respond, question or comment.


 * // Communicate With Parents //** Teachers can communicate with parents through Wikis in order to receive input on unplanned, upcoming events. Another example of school and home communication could occur through a Wiki if the teacher used Wikispaces for the weekly newsletters. As parents read the information, they can post questions about curriculum, RSVP to an event, or commit to bringing in a wish list item. The communication options are seemingly unlimited!

Examples of teacher and student interaction through Wikispaces are very common in college-leveled, online courses. Typically, reading assignments and links are posted; and students respond to discussion questions accordingly. This is a very reasonable concept to implement in classrooms of many grades. Discussion opportunities through a Wiki might elicit responses from students who are less likely to participate in person or under pressure. This site provides students with different opportunities to express themselves and communicate in the classroom a more comfortable way.
 * //Assignments For Students //**

Another example of a Wikispace in the classroom can be found on the BirneyHRRB Wiki site. In January of 2010, two elementary school teachers were the coaches of a fifth grade reading bowl team for the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl. As the fifth graders read books for the competition, they could create sample questions for each book and post them on the Wiki site. The coaches created the Wiki, listed one book per page, monitored who was reading and posting questions, and also posted important information for parents. Students could access this page in their own classrooms, during Reading Bowl Practice, or even at home.
 * // Extracurricular Activities //**

These examples are just a few of the many ways teachers can communicate with students and parents through the use of an excellent Web 2.0 tool. To respond to //this// Wiki, click the discussion tab above and leave your comments or questions.


 * Kaylee McVeigh