Evaluating the Impact of Wikis on Student Learning Outcomes: An Integrative Review

Although wikis appear to have been reported as effective tools for educators, uncertainty exists as to their effectiveness in achieving student learning outcomes. The aim of this integrative review was to examine the current evidence on the impact of wikis on student learning in courses requiring co...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of professional nursing 2016-09, Vol.32 (5), p.364-376
Main Authors: Trocky, Nina M., Buckley, Kathleen M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Collaborative learning
College students
Constructivism
Cooperative Behavior
Education, Nursing
Humans
Impact analysis
Internet
Internet resources
Internet-based learning
Knowledge
Learning
Medical education
Nursing
Nursing education
On-line learning
Online databases
Selection criteria
Social media
Social Media - utilization
Students, Health Occupations - psychology
Uncertainty
Wiki
Writing
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Summary:Although wikis appear to have been reported as effective tools for educators, uncertainty exists as to their effectiveness in achieving student learning outcomes. The aim of this integrative review was to examine the current evidence on the impact of wikis on student learning in courses requiring collaborative or co-developed assignments or activities. The authors searched several electronic databases for relevant articles and used R. Whittemore and K. Knafl’s (2005) integrative review method to analyze and synthesize the evidence. Twenty-five articles met the selection criteria for this review, and four major themes for wiki use were identified: (a) writing skills, (b) collaboration, (c) knowledge acquisition, and (d) centralized repository. Although wikis have been found useful in improving student learning outcomes and hold great potential as an instructional strategy to aid students in learning various skills and gaining new knowledge, more research is needed on their effectiveness, especially in the area of nursing education. •Wikis facilitate student writing skills, group collaboration, and knowledge acquisition.•Student learning outcomes are improved with wikis, mediating the learning context.•Wikis support the development of a community of learners through cognitive and social engagement.
ISSN:8755-7223
1532-8481
DOI:10.1016/j.profnurs.2016.01.007