Social media presents us with tremendous opportunities and challenges. It may be difficult to visualize a global network of nearly one billion users capable of generating web-content; however, that’s only a matter of time. A billion-plus mini-reporters around the globe means that we will have instant access to news and information. A global network means that reports, even from secluded parts of the world, may be delivered in a timely manner. For-profit news and information businesses may criticize the lack of “professional” reporting; however, in an age of downsizing and budget cuts, they, too, will increasingly depend upon social media, if only as a starting point.
I think that Wikipedia, is a great starting point for the high school students whom I teach and would allow my students to use Wikipedia as one (of several) source(s). Wikipedia is the world’s largest reference website and can be accessed without fees or log-in accounts. The wiki provides information on the world’s most obscure topics, outlines, and links to additional resources. ESL learners will find information in their native language. Considering the size of the website, as well as the fact that it is often the target of vandalism, the wiki “police” appear to be doing a great job.
Being free doesn’t make it less; all newspapers and magazines print retractions and/or corrections. One researcher finds fault with another researcher’s “biased” results. This is only Round 2.0 of our web world, and we are learning how to adapt. As always, educators must teach their students to think and assess critically.
Links to sample Wiki projects:
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