When I initially set up the wiki, I wanted to first just introduce my students to the concept and prepare them for where we would be headed in the near future. I explained what it was to be used for and pitched it as a way for the students to communicate with one another as well as with myself online. Since the students spend most of their days interacting with technology in one form or another, I figured that this would be a good way to hook some of the more reluctant learners. I remember posting early on in my blog that I was surprised and even a bit nervous about the number of students who were using the site when I didn’t feel as though it was “ready” for them. It was the very same day that the students received the email invitation that I had at least 15 students on the site. I think that my apprehensions came from my insecurities as an administrator of something that I felt as though I knew very little about at the time. However, I soon saw that the student interactions were actually a nice way for me to see how the students wanted to use the site and how it would be most beneficial for them. I felt as though (since it was at the time a work in progress) I could shape it based upon the needs and requests for the students. I like the fact that they were vocal with me in class about things that would be most helpful for them.
However, I am finding that things have hit a standstill in a way. The excitement that I initially felt with the ways that the students were using the site has now dissipated. I would like to see the students take things a step further. I know that I am partially to blame for them. As I stated previously, there is a student teacher working with the students at this point. I have not been able to have the time with my students that I feel it would take to really get the wiki to the place I would like it. I have certainly used class time to show the students some of the new features and ways in which I would like them to possibly use the site, but I just with there was more time. Of course, I always feel like there isn’t enough time with or without a student teacher.
Anyway, I am looking for a way to push my students to take things a step further. I know that they are at the point that they are all just comfortable using the site in the same ways that they did in the beginning. Since this is something extra that is offered to the students, there are some who just see it is one more thing to do in a sea of other commitments. Again, this is my fault because I did not make the wiki site mandatory. In fact, I am not able to since I have some students who either do not have a computer at home or who do not have internet access. It is such a useful tool but only if the students are really taking full advantage of it.
