Journal # 9 NETS 2 & 5

Lawlor, J. (2010). Let the kids do the work. Learning and leading with technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3720092010/MarchAprilNo6/Let_the_Kids_Do_the_Work.htm

This article details the author, Joseph Lawlor, experiences revolving around integrating a wiki into a language arts classroom. The first assignment was to read a poem, answer a question, respond to someone else’s answer and Lawlor noticed that students were interacting with each other online much more than he expected. One of the classes of 25 students generated 472 responses, significantly larger than responses given in class. Another experience was the “community of writers” which enabled instant feedback and help from peers and was much more effective than the delayed grading and comments from a teacher. Students also began to take initiative and began changing the layout and look of the wiki when Lawlor had forgotten to. Furthermore, the wiki surprisingly involved students who did not participate much in the classroom. Perhaps because it is more difficult to be shy online, some students who were quiet in the classroom became prolific commenters on the wiki. I believe this is due to the growing community of online activities.


Why might wikis be beneficial in an English classroom? I believe this would be extremely beneficial in an English classroom due to the immediate feedback students receive. It encourages peer interaction and increased participation. Many people are able to voice more critical opinions and hold their ground hiding behind their online persona. Though this may encourage digital harrassment, with good supervision I feel this is a great new way of teaching.

Are there concerns to consider before introducing a wiki?
Yes, I believe so. An educator must first be aware of the outcome and consequences of cyber bullying and willing to monitor and handle situations. They also must be aware that students all do not have internet access at home and need to leave lab and in class time dedicated to the wiki.