Classroom+Wikis

media type="custom" key="3399894"

=A Wikispace for ESOL parents and students participating in the B.E.S. Audio Lending Library=

=Technology Standards=
 * ===II Communication===
 * Use technology effectively and appropriately to interact electronically

=Summary= This Wikispace was designed as an extension to my audio lending library project. The audio lending library was created to promote family literacy for our ESOL population. I used the Wikispace to showcase parent-student learning. It has been an engaging tool to motivate participation in reading and discussion. Each family involved in the program has their own page on the Wiki where they can upload video and add other content. They are able to view each others' pages and add comments through the discussion board. Other pages on my Wiki include a calendar for school related events. links to reading sites and family photos. At each of our book club meetings I take lots of pictures and upload them using slideshow. This has been a big hit. The students enjoy choosing the music and picture displays.

=Reflection=

The Wikispace has encouraged collaboration and made reading a more social and interactive experience. It has most definitely encouraged book discussion. Parents are more comfortable using technology to read and discuss books. In fact they prefer it. I noticed that participation in oral reading and discussion in a group setting was limited as parents did not feel comfortable speaking aloud as they are learning a new language. However, they all wanted to participate in making a reading video with their child which they were later able to view as well as listen to other family's videos.

Click on the link below to visit my classroom WIKI

ESOL Wiki