Educational Tool

Can Wikipedia Be An Educational Tool?

Educational Tool

In the digital era, using technology in education is challenging. The traditional classrooms that lack modern teaching aids and resources are now equipped with modern teaching methods. One such state-of-the-art teaching approach is improving research skills through Wikipedia. According to google research, Wikipedia is the most widely used site for students to execute their classroom assignments and projects. Educators of every subject whether it is science, history, literature or maths use the Wikipedia site to help students enhance their knowledge–base learning. The research done on Wikipedia comes up as an effective learning tool that enhances exploratory skills,  and analytical learning processes. Furthermore, students also learn about collaborative learning that takes place in group learning.

Engaging in classroom academic or scientific projects boost inquiry-based learning in young children. As children are inquisitive by nature, the traditional classroom environment prevents them from using their skills and knowledge to gain additional knowledge. Whereas, using Wikipedia for research allows students to work collaboratively Learning from their peers enables students to share their knowledge with other group members. Moreover, students gain autonomy and the ability to exercise control over the facts and evidence they collect to execute their project or assignment. Consequently, Wikipedia allows students to work together on small research projects including compiling bibliographies in which they add summaries and analyses about course-related readings. They also gather a glossary of useful terms or concepts related to the course. The other collaborative tasks include maintaining a collection of links where the teacher and students can post, comment,  or send relevant links.

Why students should use a wiki?

 Improve The Educational Efficiency of Students

The contribution of students to Wikipedia at the school level allows students to improve their writing and research skills. It was observed that high school students after conducting extensive research would copy past the source text. They have no idea of to summarize the content using their vocabulary. Some students paraphrase the web sources. Wiki page creators suggest young learners get familiar with Wikipedia guidelines that will assist in writing a comprehensive research Wiki article.   

The authors learn about creating unplagiarized content. It implies students reform the source material. However, the writers should use an inline citation, or quote that verifies the article. Moreover, choosing the topic implies the students select a theme that has high significance in public. Concerning choosing the material for their article allows students to know the significance of evaluation of the sources using authentic journals and independent sites. The assessment of the first draft follows a detailed modification of the draft by inserting accurate citations and URLs to validate the content.

Employing Wikis allows students to engage in active learning. The interactive classroom environment comprises young learners working in peers or groups.  They get to engage in wide-ranging research, discussion, and open dialogue. The collective efforts of students enable them to come up with a well-researched and informative essay.

Students Must Follow Strict Writing Codes To Ensure The Accuracy

According to Google research, many classrooms encourage students to use Wikipedia for their interactive project work. Young students take help from Wikipedia in academic work, writing a research article or essay, and evaluating the content. However, many writers are unable to follow Wikipedia rules. Though the article includes preliminary information and arguments, it lacks authentic citations. School students adhere to strict writing codes when using Wikipedia as a source for their research. Under the Wiki policy, they are required to cite the sources for the topic being researched. They should use primary and secondary reliable sources. For instance, books, newspaper reports, reviews, and academic papers.  Wikipedia is a good starting point for young learners to improve their analytical skills.  It helps them to find accurate references that support the content. The students ensure that the assignments are authentic. It signifies that students should avoid doing copy and pasting directly from Wikipedia or any other source. The content should be paraphrased or summarized along with inserting proper citations in the article. As students keep contributing their articles to Wikipedia pages, they develop an awareness of providing accurate references to validate the information gathered. Consequently, it establishes the accuracy and reliability of their work.

The Article Should Be Written Impartially

As students begin with Wikipedia writing, they are required to develop knowledge of Wikipedia conflict of interest guidelines. If a student has a personal connection to the topic they are writing about, they ensure that the tone of the article remains unbiased. Avoid expressing their personal opinions instead maintain a neutral point of view. Moreover, the language used should not be promotional rather the students should present their information in simple and engaging language. If the content is criticized for either being biased or having illogical comments,   the students should clarify their reasoning and respond to the community editor’s feedback respectfully.

How Wiki Editors Improve The Learning Of Young Learners

Employing a Wikipedia editor service for conducting research projects at the school level helps students with easy access to information on a wide range of topics related to research projects or assignments. The editors guide them to maintain the accuracy of the content by selecting an accurate topic and material that is conversed in scholarly journals. Moreover, they are required to evaluate the credibility of sources by using citations from authentic sources. Wiki editors help young students to nurture collaboration in group and peer group assignments.  Hence, students develop their writing, research, and critical thinking skills. 

To Recapitulate

Young students who begin working on Wikipedia can attain accessible Information related to the topic they are interested to write about. Using Wikipedia allows young learners to become independent learners.  They can develop the skills to conduct their research and explore topics with ease. They also learn to critically evaluate information and sources. Consequently, students learn collaborative learning of projects and assignments and learn to work in an open and friendly environment. Therefore, educators must employ modern teaching methods to use a wiki in teaching and learning. A comprehensive instructive plan will boost student participation in the wiki, and develop their knowledge, critical thinking techniques, and collaborative and inquiry skills.

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