Language+Learning+and+Wikis

Introduction
Many methods in teaching students another language (especially ESL or ELL) are outdated and lack the integration of technology. Many still rely on the language textbook to walk students through the language. However, using wikis in an ESL/ELL classroom will change how language is taught, enable more level-appropriate collaboration, and give students greater access to helpful online materials.

Benefits of Wikis in Language Learning
Wikis have the benefit of allowing students to practice their language skills even when not in school. Engaging in wiki "diaries" of their lives will enable them to get across their ideas through pictures or short video while practicing their language skills in descriptions (at their level) for the content included on their page (Example). This enables further (level appropriate) discussion as students can comment on their classmates wiki pages and students experience cultural sharing in a written/visual way.

Another benefit for wikis is that they allow students to collaborate on various projects and assignments. Students can research, summarize and discuss current events, literature, history, culture, etc. through group writing. Though blogs allow for conversation as well, wikis allow constant edits by all members and is easily accessible and searchable.

Wikis also benefit students of all learning styles as it has the possiblility to incorporate writing, reading, listening and speaking. Students can highlight their strengths while working on other areas in a more private setting.

Barriers and Solutions for Wikis
Ironically the barriers for ELL students in using wikis is the language. Teachers must explicitly teach how to use wikis, what different vocabulary they will need (post, tag, username), and how to contribute and edit others' work. A constant worry is that other students' work will be deleted, but teaching proper use can alleviate this concern. Another huge barrier for foreign students is that wikis may not be accessible from their home country either through censureship (China for example) or lack of access to technology. In that case, a diary (and commenting on others' diaries) would be very difficult, as well as completing work in the home country.

Wiki Sites
> [] > sites.google.com
 * http://www.wikispaces.com/