WikiWeeks, Cooperative learning using critical LMS technology and trending topics
A wiki is a collaborative feature in most LMS that can be used to facilitate a sense of community and partnership. Interest and applicable approach led to the usage of this tool to insight information literacy as well as independent research relating to topics. The Science of Addiction and Obsession (SCI 3301), is one that deals with the biological, social and psychosocial implications of addiction in general. Principle themes that emerged from statistics were the potential uses of wikis as instructional tools, potential uses for information dissemination. It is essential to remain abreast and stay in tune with recent trends and news relating to therapies or different vices.
Technologies
The usage of Wikis to showcase trending topics in addiction. The class focused on the centered approach in discussing new topics and addictive practices. Giving students an opportunity to do independent research, and use technology to discover new information about addictive practices. Using the Blackboard LMS system, we enabled wikis to share and upload articles. We used the wikis as an open forum where students uploaded and responded to each other.
Explain project results
the syllabus of the class details a specific assignment, wiki-weeks to promote higher order of learning. This method encouraged cooperation between students, active learning, individual feedback and articulation for high expectations. Every week one cohort were the presenters and had the charge of casting and publishing articles relating to specific topics of the week. The remaining cohorts had the task of commenting on one of the articles of the week. Article posting prompted students to read and comment verifying analysis of the material. Wiki implemented a new dimension to our classroom and integrated ideas that coincided with trending topics. Students were informed and learning in real-time in a manner that enhanced cooperation and critical thinking.
Why it should be considered best practice?
This methodology yielded best practice in that it used a new technology implemented for learning. Instructors should use new approaches to engage first-generation students that tend to be more useful to technology. Most schools have built-in LMS systems and Professors do not utilize all of the tools readily available for instruction.
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