Wikis

Definition

Wikis are collaborative web platforms that allow users to create, edit, and manage content collectively. These platforms enable participation and user-generated content, reflecting the principles of open communication and shared knowledge in the digital age. The ease of editing and the communal aspect of wikis promote participatory culture by empowering individuals to contribute their knowledge and perspectives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wikis are known for their ease of use, allowing anyone with internet access to contribute and edit content without needing extensive technical skills.
2. The most famous example of a wiki is Wikipedia, which has millions of articles written by volunteers from around the world.
3. Wikis promote a decentralized model of information sharing, contrasting with traditional authoritative sources that rely on expert opinions.
4. They can be used for various purposes, including educational resources, project collaboration, and community-driven content creation.
5. The open editing feature of wikis encourages active participation but also requires guidelines and moderation to maintain the quality of information.

Review Questions

• How do wikis embody the principles of participatory culture and user-generated content?
  • Wikis embody participatory culture by providing a platform where users can actively engage in content creation and editing, reflecting their collective knowledge and perspectives. This collaborative environment fosters community involvement, allowing individuals to contribute their insights freely. The nature of user-generated content is also evident as wikis thrive on contributions from diverse participants, making the information dynamic and ever-evolving based on communal input.
• Discuss the challenges associated with maintaining quality control in wikis while encouraging user participation.
  • Maintaining quality control in wikis presents challenges due to their open editing nature, which can lead to vandalism or misinformation. To encourage participation while ensuring reliability, many wikis implement guidelines for contributors, moderation systems, and peer review processes. These measures help balance the need for collaborative input with the necessity for accurate and trustworthy information, promoting an informed community while fostering engagement.
• Evaluate the impact of wikis on traditional models of knowledge dissemination and how they reshape authority in information sharing.
  • Wikis significantly impact traditional models of knowledge dissemination by shifting authority from established experts to a more democratized approach where anyone can contribute. This redefinition of authority challenges conventional hierarchies in information sharing, leading to a more inclusive landscape where diverse voices can be heard. As a result, wikis not only enhance access to information but also encourage critical thinking among users who must navigate varying degrees of reliability in the content created collectively.

Related terms

Crowdsourcing: The practice of obtaining input, ideas, or services from a large group of people, often via the internet, to leverage collective intelligence.

User-Generated Content: Content created and shared by users of an online platform, often characterized by its informal nature and accessibility.

Collaborative Learning: An educational approach that involves students working together in groups to solve problems or complete tasks, enhancing the learning experience through shared knowledge.