Wiki's ....... WACK or WONDERFUL?

There are a variety of opinions on the use of wikis. Then when you get into their use in the classroom - it's another varying sway of philosophy in education. I have to admit that I was not a fan of wikis until studying the integration of technology in education. Collaboration is an essential element of education for so many reason. Traditionally, when you hear collaboration - you think "group work". However, collaboration has grown to the level of thinking, sharing ideas, creating ownership, creativity and growth. This is a practice that not only K-12 student should practice, but also higher level learning as well as professions. My original fear of wikis was due the mindset that it was false information, rumors and people's "opinions" versus facts. However, after reading Richardson's concept of wikis - I was fascinated by his explanation of wikis and how it should be used. The concept of wikis being used to "negotiate and create truth" was an eye-opening statement. Due to the fact that there was a study to intentionally print false information and within seconds be edited demonstrates a need for truth. The process of publishing and editing requires "thinking" and research. Wow - what a concept - isn't this what we are supposed to be doing with our students. I began going from wikis's being wack to wiki's being wonderful. What about you - do you think?