Blogsand+Wikis

Blogs and wikis are another means by which to communicate over the web (much like AOL messenger and email); however, blogs and wikis are more efficient to use than IM or email. Why? Blogs allow you to start a conversation with anyone on the web (you pick who sees it and/or responds to it). Wikis allow you and whoever you chose to invite to your wiki to start a conversation and edit each other's remarks.

However, there are some drawbacks to blogs and wikis. Remember the Dangers of the web mentioned in the previous section? Blogs and wikis are also another means by which bullies or predators can contact you. When using blogs or wikis it is important to pay attention to the security features that the website offers (spaces like this one allow you to keep out whoever you choose). There are certain options, you can keep people from reading your blog/wiki, from responding to it, and/or from finding it on a search engine.

Collaborative writing with Wikis allow students to understand and experience: Students who enter the blogoshere should be respectful of all contributors, and remember to keep the blogosphere an open communicative source on information for any who is a participating member of the blog.
 * How to edit others work as long as they understand the overall purpose of the wiki, and work towards fulfilling that purpose.
 * Students should experience the designation of group roles when working collaboritively on a wiki. By assigning roles, the students are able to focus on their given responsibility, and they are able to further examine the dynamics of a group by assessing management skills, initiative, and individual effort.
 * Students are able to gain a better understanding of how group work present strengths and weaknesses to a given project.

Check out "[|Blogging in Plain English]" now that you have your safety tips for a HOW TO on Blogging! Check out "[|Wikis in Plain English]" now that you have your safety tips for a HOW TO on Blogging!