Using the Moodle Wiki for collaborative sharing and editing

This article introduces the Moodle Wiki, a versatile tool for group work, collaborative research, or building a database of shared knowledge.

Collaborative tools like Miro and Padlet are becoming increasingly popular, but often these tools involve students contributing individually rather than working collaboratively. If you’re looking for a truly collaborative learning experience, consider trying the Moodle Wiki! 

What is a Moodle Wiki?

The Moodle Wiki is a collection of web pages that anyone can edit.

Depending on how you set it up, Moodle Wikis can be collaborative or independent, allowing individuals to compose their own pages, work in small groups, or work together as a class.

A collaborative Wiki let’s students add new pages and edit existing ones. As a result, you end up with a fully formed resource that everyone shares ownership over. Students and tutors can even view the Wiki’s history to see what has been contributed and by whom.

When to use a Wiki

Wiki’s are particularly useful for group work. They are places where students can organise research, draft projects, and comment on the work of others. They can be used for everything from simple resource lists to building course encyclopaedias.

For tutors, their key benefit is that they let you view the history of each page, enabling you to see the process behind the final product.

Below are some possible Wiki activities. Can you think of more?

• Collaborative research and discussion.
• Collaborative storytelling, brainstorming, or concept development.
• Sharing useful links and resources or creating a shared database of course terms.
• Giving and receiving peer feedback.
• Managing and coordinating group project tasks as well as editing each other’s work.

How to set-up a Wiki

This video demonstrates how to prepare a Wiki, what settings to use, and how to view and track individual student contributions.

Tips for using a Wiki

1. Form a rough plan for the layout and structure of your Wiki. You may wish to create the pages yourself, allowing students to edit and add content.
2. Offer an orientation to your students on how to navigate, edit, and add new pages.
3. Set clear rules and expectations around participation, collaboration, and editting.
4. Include instructions on how to use a Wiki in the activity description.
5. Link the Wiki to coursework and lessons.
6. Check who is participating from the ‘History’ tab.
7. Encourage students to review and comment on each other’s entries.
8. Ensure students know they can contact The Digital Space for technical help.

If you’re thinking of trying a Wiki, consider contacting LCC Digital Learning Team for support.