Wiki (from wikipedia.org)

A wiki is a website that allows the creation and editing of any number of interlinked web pages via a web browser using a simplified markup language or a WYSIWYG text editor. Wikis are typically powered by wiki software and are often used to create collaborative works. Examples include community websites, corporate intranets, knowledge management systems, and note services. The software can also be used for personal note taking.

Wikis serve different purposes. Some permit control over different functions (levels of access). For example editing rights may permit changing, adding or removing material. Others may permit access without enforcing access control. Other rules can be imposed for organizing content.

A very simple explanation of wikis can be found at ”Commoncraft”  www.commoncraft.com/video-wikis-plain-english

Some other useful sites:

Creating a wiki

Wikispaces web site http://www.wikispaces.com/content/for/teachers Create free wikis for educational use

PBWorks  http://pbworks.com/content/edu-classroom-teachers  Free wiki platform, but you pay for premium services

Helpful tips:

Wikis in Education  http://teaching-with-technology.wikispaces.com/Wikis+in+Education

Wikis and Education  http://www.shambles.net/pages/learning/ict/wikiedu/  Links to many wiki related pages 

50 Ways to Use Wikis for a More Collaborative & Interactive Classroom  http://www.smartteaching.org/blog/2008/08/50-ways-to-use-wikis-for-a-more-collaborative-and-interactive-classroom/

6 Ways to use Wikis in the Classroom  http://mrsroncone.wikispaces.com/Ways+to+use+a+wiki+in+your+classroom

Wiki in a K-12 Classroom  http://wik.ed.uiuc.edu/index.php/Wiki_in_a_K-12_classroom

How to Create a Classroom Wiki from Edutopia  www.edutopia.org/wiki-technology

Examples of Educational Wikis  http://educationalwikis.wikispaces.com/Examples+of+educational+wikis