Wiki in the Classrooms

Wiki in the Classrooms Wiki is an online application that allows users to contribute to or edit its content. With this being said Wiki is useful for all those looking to share their knowledge and information on specific topics. This is both a blessing and a curse; anyone has the ability to change or alter the information, including students. In many ways this allows students to “take the driver’s seat” in most situations; they have the ability to explain and describe their work in a teaching manner. This gives them more confidence and understanding of the subject. Wiki can also be used as a collaborative tool; students can learn from one another and contribute to the world and their education in a positive way. Students can now share their ideas and receive constructive criticism while still feeling like their voice is heard. Parents also have the opportunity to engage with their children and their coursework. They can see the teacher’s lesson plans and how their children are adhering to those particular topics. For example, history projects on specific topics and or individuals would be a good way to utilize the tools of a Wiki. With history lessons, students and teachers can focus on more factual information and what makes more sense for the topic or individual. Wikis are also effective when testing students on what they have learned and absorbed. It is a new and innovative way to recall information without the traditional testing strategies. Wiki can be used as a fun way to interact in the classrooms and an effective way to recall information. Lastly, Wiki is a good source for students and teachers to incorporate change in their lesson plans. A lot of knowledge is based on consistent plans with no room for improvement or criticism; Wiki offers the ability to change with technology and different ways of learning.

Copyright

Copyright is the legal right granted to an author, a composer, a playwright, a publisher or a distributor to exclusive publication, production, sale, or a distribution of a literary, musical, dramatic, or artistic work.  There are a lot of misconceptions on copyright laws and what they entail.  For example, the article states, “people routinely get away with illegal copying in the classroom for the same reason that people get away with speeding on the interstate.”  Teachers and educators can’t be ignorant when it comes to this matter, especially with the large amounts of material being used in the classrooms.  Those who believe they are abiding by the copyright laws usually settle for fair use, which in turn only allows permission to use copyrighted material if it is not diverting income from the creator.  Educators and or teachers must consider four factors: the purpose and character of yourself, the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount or portion us, and the value of the copyrighted work.  To avoid the misuse of copyright laws, those in education must abide by the fair use guidelines and assure that they are up to date, especially when guidelines are being updated every so often.  “There was an effort to develop some additional guidelines several years ago, according to Nancy Willard, a former copyright attorney.”  Fortunately, a set of guidelines, though not legally binding, were created to give educators a general idea of what they can and cannot do in relation to copyrighting.  In addition to gaining knowledge on copyright and fair use guidelines, teachers must also ensure that knowledge is shared within the classroom as well.  Nancy Willard expresses how important it is for teachers and educators to teach their students about copyright law.  Adsit believes that teachers actually hide behind the safety of their students in order to hide their misuse.

Meet Shayna

Hello everyone, my name is Shayna!  I am a 22 year old Psychology student at Louisiana State University.  My goal in life is to become a Social Work for the United States Army so that I can help soldiers with PTSD and other mental illnesses.  I enjoy helping individuals outside of the Army as well; I try my best to volunteer with nonprofit organizations to support individuals who have dealt with sexual trauma and or suicidal ideation.  In my spare time I enjoy eating, binge watching TV shows, hanging out with friends, and meeting new people.

The purpose of my blog is to motivate individuals by giving positive advice and encouragement.  I understand that everyone goes through their own crises, whether it is school, work, or home.  My goal is to uplift that person who may be struggling with issues they cannot cope with alone.  I hope to offer resources and personal experiences that help individuals cope with stress, depression, and suicidal thoughts.