The Impact of Wikipedia

Researchers Find Online Encyclopedia Effective Learning Tool

While Wikipedia is often considered unreliable because of its open format, two College of Education professors have found that it makes an effective learning device in the college classroom. “Despite what many people perceive as Wikipedia’s shortcomings, using Wikipedia as a research assignment actually makes students think more critically and enhances their ability to analyze primary and secondary sources,” says Jason LaFrance, assistant professor of educational leadership.

LaFrance has teamed up with fellow faculty member Dan Calhoun to publish the study “Students Perceptions of Wikipedia as a Learning Tool for Educational Leaders” in the recent issue of the International Journal of Educational Leadership Preparation (IJELP). The study was also endorsed by the National Council of Professors of Educational Administration (NCPEA).

While LaFrance says there are legitimate concerns about the free online encyclopedia’s reliability and accuracy, studies have shown that the entries are as accurate and credible as some online sources respected by academics. “Whether we like it or not, Wikipedia is being used by students,” he adds.

As an educator, LaFrance looked at how Wikipedia could be used to improve the learning experience. Doctoral students in Educational Leadership were asked to create or update Wikipedia entries. “Students felt Wikipedia was as effective or more effective than traditional research assignments for enhancing writing, research and critical thinking skills,” LaFrance says. “They saw the kind of reach Wikipedia has. It’s as if your writing is peer-reviewed by hundreds of thousands of people in real-time.” And that, LaFrance says, can have a powerful impact on students’ motivation and interest in research and writing.