Exercise 16

Wikis

"A Wiki allows a group of people to collaboratively develop a website with no knowledge of HTML or other markup languages. Anyone can add to or edit content." In a library situation, a Wiki could be used for meetings (agendas, minutes, etc), conference training, presentation medium and many other ways. "You are only limited by your imagination." I feel that my imagination is running out of ideas as there are so many younger computer savvy people out there to do the thinking.

However, one of the popular Wikis that I have used for years is Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. In the library, we have been told that we can use it to find the basics, but always must go to an authorised site for information. When you discover that anyone can post or edit, you can understand why this is standard. However, I must say that not any one person can be an expert in all areas. There are people out there who study or enjoy a certain subject and become experts in their field. They might not want to publish a book or paper about the subject, but are very happy to place the information on a Wiki.

Yes, there is a place for Wikis in my world.