The discussion on whether or not instructors should allow the use of Wikipedia as an online source in researching topics has been an ongoing topic for several years. Now a Library Director puts forth her ideas of how using Wikipedia can actually strengthen a students research skills.
"I am one of those instructors who does not allow wikipedia as a source in my classroom. However I also do not allow dictionaries, encyclopedia or any other site that tries to provide information on a wide variety of topics. While I feel all of these sources are appropriate in elementary school & sometimes in high school, I teach in a graduate school program and I feel the students in these classes should be beyond wikipedia and such sources and ready to use primary sources, published articles, professional web pages and other higher level sources in their own field when responding to assignments."
Several of the national technology conferences have seen an increase in educators wanting to be able to prepare online courses. Many school districts are trying to offer online courses to expand their offerings and to provide access to homebound students. Unfortunately the districts seem to be expecting class room teachers or school technology teacher to develop these classes. The result has been an influx of substandard or inadequate online classes.
"Thanks Carla. AT AIU we constantly work towards offering new programs for our students. My Bachelor's degree was in Pyschology from a traditional school. Way back then we did not have online courses or even personal computers. ;-) We hope you will decide to stick with AIU as you continue on with your education and who knows maybe we will meet some day if you enter our Masters of Education program. Good Luck."
