Wikis

=Wikis=

According to the original creator of the first wiki site, it is //"The simplest online database that could possibly work."//
 * What are they?**

If you have ever used or understand how the popular Wikipedia works, then you'll understand what a wiki is: it is a website that provides information edited/created by multiple users. Often, wikis have moderators who "fact check," but that cannot be guaranteed across all wikis. Also, users may be granted only certain levels of access to modifying the information.

//Wikipedia// As stated above, Wikipedia is a website that has information on a large variety of different topics that is created and edited by multiple users. Because Wikipedia can be edited by many different people who have a variety of backgrounds and knowledge, it is impossible to be sure that all of the information is accurate. Cited entries are more likely to be accurate because of the use of citations, however, that doesn't mean that the information is all correct. Wikipedia is a good place to go for general information about a topic. If the information being researched will be used for an academic paper, then it is important to simply use Wikipedia for a starting point and find another (possibly more credible) source that provides the same information to be sure it is correct.
 * Examples of wikis**

//Class Wikis// Class wikis, such as this one are very useful because they allow a class of people to share their ideas in a single, easy to access location. Having everyone's input and information in one location makes it easier to find and read all of the entries. Wikis are great for collaboration. Classmates can easily edit each other's entries and add to them, creating collaborative work. Having a discussion about a topic is much easier this way. It is particularly helpful to be able to see who edited which part of a wiki. That way, collaboration can happen more effectively.

//Fan-made wikis// There are many wikis that have been created by fans of shows, movies, and books. Like other wikis, these are dependent on contributors and editors. Unlike other wikis, however, wikis for shows, movies, and books have the advantage of a knowledgeable fan-base already established who are often willing to spend time in creating these wikis. The quality of fan-based wikis varies depending on how committed and tech-savvy the fans are. Advantages of fan-based wikis include locating information from previous books or shows that someone has forgotten, finding spoilers, and connecting with people who share the same interests.

Discussion.
 * Strategies for successful wikifying.**

Documenting

Refactoring.


 * Services: pros and cons.**

Wikispaces [|Wet Paint] Google Docs?