http://wiki-riki.wikispaces.com/Research+Papers+and+Reports ->
"Wikibook AERA paper.pdf"
Sajjapanroj, S., Bonk, C. J., Lee, M., & Lin, M.-F. G. (2007, April).
The challenges and successes of Wikibookian experts and Wikibook
novices: Classroom and community perspectives. Paper presented at the
American Educational Research Association, Chicago, IL.
The Challenges and Successes of Wikibookian Experts and Wikibook
Novices: Classroom and Community Collaborative Experiences
Abstract:
The present study explored the creation of Wikibooks in both classroom
(i.e., Wikibook Novices) and general community (i.e., Wikibookian
Experts) contexts. Observations, surveys, and follow-up email
interviews were the primary means of data collection. This study
analyzed various demographic data of Wikibookians as well as
motivational factors involved in Wikibook creation. Other variables
explored included Wikibook ownership, challenges, frustrations,
perceptions of success and completion, and norms for collaboration in
the Wikibook community. The results indicate that Wikibookians were
young males with varying educational backgrounds; fewer than half
without a four year college degree. Wikibookian Experts were more
likely to perceive that a Wikibook could be completed than Wikibook
Novices in a classroom project. And compared to the novices, the
Wikibookians Experts were also more likely to indicate that no one
owns a Wikibook. Still there were similarities across the populations
in this survey. For instance, they both tended to see a Wikibook
environment as informal, exploratory, collaborative, and somewhat
independent, though in varying degrees. They also recognized that
there are multiple roles involved in the completion of a
Wikibook—contributor, author, reader, etc.—as well as multiple owners
or no owner of the final Wikibook product; assuming that there is a
final product. Importantly, they perceive at a Wikibook project as a
way to share knowledge, obtain personal growth, publish their work,
learn new technologies, and make a contribution to society. However,
the Wikibook Novices favored the publishing avenues it provided as
well as the technology experimentation whereas the Wikibook experts
focused on sharing knowledge and looking for personal growth and
enrichment. Many research avenues are noted to follow-up some of
these similarities and differences.
cheers,
Brianna
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