Creating/Developing/Using a Wiki Study Guide: Effects on Student Achievement

AbstractWikis are gaining popularity in classrooms because of their many benefits. Despite these benefits, there is a shortage of empirical data regarding their effectiveness in increasing knowledge. This study examined (a) the effectiveness of creating/developing/using a wiki to increase knowledge of Web 2.0 tools for 103 preservice teachers; (b) their perceptions of the use of a wiki to increase knowledge of Web 2.0 tools; (c) the frequency of use while participating in the reader, writer, and editor roles; and (d) their communication habits. The results revealed that there was a significant gain in achievement. Further, the preservice teachers reported that the wiki was effective for increasing their knowledge of Web 2.0 tools, and more than 75% used the wiki as an information source during and after the activity. The preservice teachers indicated that the creation of the wiki increased their knowledge as well as the presentations given by their peers, but the hands-on practice increased their knowledg...