Thing 12: Wikis

There are tools in which the pros outway the cons 99.9%, and then there are tools like the wiki, where nothing is black or white. These tools definitely have potential. They permit active participation and learning. In fact, as many of my colleagues can attest, they serve as a great meeting space. In the St. Johns County Public Library System, librarians who serve children and/or teens have our own wiki were we can have open and ongoing discussions. The Adult Reference team also has one. I have become more and more accustomed to using it.

Wikipedia is also an interesting concept. The user can find information on anything or anybody. However, no matter how EASY this makes research for the user, there are always consequences...or perhaps just more work. Having worked with media specialists and teachers, I have heard that teachers & educators "ban" such research. However, I've also heard that others encourage its use...because they want their kids to go back and use other database to verify the information. Sometimes, these educators just want their students to explore and learn, and that is enough.

As far as limiting information by format, I think it is important at a school or research level. It is important for students to learn how to discriminate between valid and pertinent information and misleading entries that are written by someone who is anything but an expert in any give subject.