Collaborative Writing - Examining Online Environments

Unit Objective: explain and understand the various forms of online collaborative writing by creating a graphic organizer outlining three online collaborative writing environments through the use of a collaborative writing environment.

    (Enabling Prerequisites): basic web navigation, familiarity with web-based instructional
    modes, understanding of writing pedagogy and process
    (Supportive Prerequisites): understanding of collaborative practices in writing,
    understanding of standards for evaluation, facility with document generation programs,
    process of conducting an Internet search, ability to navigate web 2.0 tools

As examined and discussed in the previous unit, the necessity of collaboration as a skill for our students to master in the 21st century is paramount. Given this charge, writing provides an ideal opportunity for teachers to ensure students have rich opportunities for collaboration. With the advent of several Online Collaborative Environments (Web 2.0 resources), collaboration in writing is easier than ever. As Solomon et. al (2003) assert, "Writing activities involving teams, peer audiences, and problem solving contexts cannot be carried out very well in traditional learning environments. Indeed, researches and educational designers have in recent years felt a need for a new conceptualization of the contexts. of learning in general and writing in particular, and consequently for the redesign of appropriate learning environments." Web 2.0 resources provide the new learning environments to enhance collaborative opportunities in writing. Still, all Web 2.0 resources are not created equal or will serve all writing purposes equally as you discussed in the previous unit.

Having determined the need, benefit, and possibilities associated with collaborative writing, it is now time to examine the possible online environments that will enable collaborative writing.

We will begin by examining one of the most common collaborative Web 2.0 resources, a Wiki. To become familiar with how a Wiki works, view the Wikis in Plain English episode from The Commoncraft Show.[[1]] Then, visit the discussion forum where you will find your new groups and roles. Each "facilitator" will need to visit http://www.wikispaces.com and sign up for a free wiki. Share the wiki site and password with your group in the discussion forum.

Examine the following Web 2.0 resources by creating a free account for each. Consider the possible classroom applications, strengths, and shortcomings of each by completing the Web 2.0 spreadsheet as a group in your Wiki.File:Online Collaborative Writing Spreadsheet.pdf

Having examined online collaborative writing resources, and engaged in online collaborative writing yourself, reflect and share your thoughts on how your writing process was affected and the outcomes of this activity. Post your thoughts in the class discussion forum.

Unit Resources:

LeFever, L. (Producer). (2007). Wikis in Plain English. [Web]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dnL00TdmLY

Unit Three - Designing Collaborative Writing in Online EnvironmentsDesigning_Collaborative_Writing_in_Online_Environments

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