Rhetoric and Composition/Teacher's Handbook/Teaching with Wikitexts
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[edit] Teaching with Wikitexts
Many teachers of writing from all over the world have viewed this wikitext and wondered if it would be appropriate for their classroom. There are obviously some big changes you'll have to make if you're accustomed to a traditional printed textbook. This chapter will address some of the more common questions teachers have when considering adopting this or any other wikitext into their syllabus.
[edit] Issues of Access
One of the biggest worries teachers have about online materials of any sort is that some of their students may lack the knowledge, equipment, or desire to access them. What good is a freely available textbook if students and teachers can't afford computers and internet connections?
The information found within the Rhetoric and Composition wikibook belongs to the public good. As an instructor, you may copy and disseminate the information found within this book.
- If access is an issue for some, feel free to print copies of the information found within this book.
- If knowledge of use is an issue, create an online information search. In this way, students become more familiar with the wiki design. Also, they will learn the techniques being taught within the book.
- If desire is an issue, challenge the student to educate you, the instructor, on the information found within. Students may not want to use an online text due to a belief that their instructor does not know how to use the online text. By giving the student this directive, they may feel empowered by the assignment.
[edit] Issues of Accountability
One of the most commonly raised issues regarding wikitexts (or wikis in general) is accountability. Who, if anyone, is responsible for verifying the claims and information published on a wiki? This discussion is also at the center of any type of online research. Who are the major contributors and authors of this wikibook? How often is this book reviewed by the major authors? Do earlier versions of the wikibook still exist, in case information is changed?
The main body of this Rhetoric and Composition wikibook has been authored by University faculty and Graduate students (the majority of whom are specializing in rhetoric and composition), within the course curriculum of a Minnesota State University. This particular wikibook is frequently reviewed for content. The information within the Rhetoric and Composition wikibook is regularly edited and monitored for changes to content.
These students and faculty, along with a family of online rhetoricians, work to maintain the credibility and accountability of the Rhetoric and Composition wiki text.
If you feel information has been modified or changed to state incorrect information, or you have asked students to print out pages from a wikibook and the printed version you have is different, you can view all the earlier forms of a page found within the book. At the top of each wikipage is a tab labelled History.
If you click on this tab, you will find a listing of every earlier version of the wikibook page. The date and author will also be listed. You even have the ability to view two versions of the page at the same time. In this way, you can verify the student's copy of the book.
[edit] Wikitexts vs. Printed Texts
Many teachers and students find reading text on a printed page easier and more comfortable than reading online. Yet, in today's era of internet access, students may find locating information via a computer or cell phone connection more appealing. If technology is available, students may opt for the web instead of the printed page.
you may be deciding which type of text is best suited for your classroom. If you are, please use the following lists to help with that decision:
[edit] Benefits of a Printed Text
- Computer access is not necessary.
- Student can purchase the same edition.
- The style and format is in a printed book format.
[edit] Benefits of a Wikitext
- The wikitext is free.
- As an instructor, you are allowed to copy and disseminate the information found within.
- The wikitext is able to include new information.
- The wikitext is not limited to a page count.
- All earlier versions of the book are accessible.
- Only the information needed has to be printed.
[edit] Drawbacks of a Printed Text
- The information contained may be outdated.
- The printed text may not rules and topics about new technologies.
- The printed text is limited to a page count.
- The printed text must be purchased.
[edit] Drawbacks of a Wikitext
- The information contained could be changed by anyone.
- Computer access is necessary, at least once, to locate information within the book.
[edit] Wikitexts vs. Other Online Texts
As you're probably well aware, the Rhetoric and Composition Wikitext is not the only solution for instructors looking for an online composition text. Several of the major commercial textbook publishers are now offering online or CD-ROM editions of their popular printed editions, as well as a plethora of companion websites and supplementary materials. And supplementary materials are grand.
