Wiki, wiki, wiki--Part 2

Now that you know how a wiki works, the question is now, "How can I use it in my classroom?" The main way Paul and I use our class wikis to showcase student projects. First, student post links to their completed projects to our wiki. Second, students can visit the wiki to veiw each others projects. Finally, they can easily leave comments (positive ones or constructive suggestions.) Students enjoy showing off their projects and try to do a nice job because they know it will be on display and other will not only be looking at it, but also commenting on it.

Watch the following video to take a tour of wiki pages for a few projects in two of my classes.



Next time we will look at how to set up a wiki for free at PBWiki.

Wiki, wiki, wiki--Part 1

Wikis. You have probably heard about them, you may have even been on one , but beyond Wikipedia, how can you use wikis in your classroom. Great question! Well, wikis are fast becoming the hottest tool on the Web to allow your students (or colleagues) to collaborate on projects, evaluate information, and comment on other students' work. But lets not get ahead of ourselves. Lets take it slow. Lets start at the beginning with a nice video explaining how wikis work.



Next time we will continue our series by showing different ways to use wikis in the classroom.

Thanks.

Web Site of the Month--Wydea.com

I love a good video to tie into my lesson plans. Many times I use them to begin lessons so students can get an overview of the concepts I am going to present. One of the Web sites that I have found good videos for Technology concepts is Wydea. This Web site specializes in videos about Science and Technology topics. What they do best is answer the question "How does it work?" Everything from jet engines to E-mail to touch screens, and many more.

Check out this site and find a video to show your class!

Spring Break Update

First, it is spring break here in Sparta. After break, look for posts for our series on how we use wikis in the classroom, some PD on Office 2007, and more. See you in a week!

Second, I have turned off comments on this blog. We use this blog as a professional development tool around our district and the comments section was open to anyone, including students who might find their way on here. If you would like to comment to Paul or I on one of our posts or ask a question, please drop us an E-mail.