Blog vs. Wiki

Which is more effective in a classroom??

I really think that each of these two things has something to offer.

BLOGS
One great thing about Blogs is that they are an extension of freedom of speech. The writer of a blog can share his/her opinions as they wish...and the people who read it don't necessarily have to have the same opinions...but it's an outlet for those thoughts. It's a way for people to share exciting times in ones life without having to send mass emails or telling a story over and over. It's almost like a living journal...one that you don't mind spilling your thoughts to on a regular basis.

In the educational realm, they are a way for students to react to readings or topics discussed in class. They are ways for students to share how they relate to things going in within the classroom and (if applicable) in the online environment. It's a creative outlet for someone.

Though I myself am not a huge blogger (just because there are times where I feel disconnected from writing in this format) I can see the pluses to the concept. It's truly non-judgmental way for someone to open up to people they may or may not be able to connect with.

WIKI'S
Wiki's are definitely different from Blogs, in the sense that they are an open forum for people to add and edit to information already there. The biggest and best example of this being Wikipedia...and online encyclopedia that bases itself on people editing and altering its content. They are ever changing...and the content that gets added or changed may or may not be correct. This kind of thing isn't always easily monitored.

Use in the educational realm?? I can't see myself using a Wiki in a classroom...but they are great for creating a master list of terms or codes for students to add or take away from. They could be used for general discussion forums as long as students agree not to alter what other students before them have put there. I haven't found myself in a situation throughout my undergraduate career that I could have been bettered by a Wiki being integrated into a classroom.