Evaluating the Impact of Wikis on Student Learning Outcomes: An Integrative Review

• Published in: Journal of professional nursing Vol. 32; no. 5; pp. 364 - 376
• Main Authors: Trocky, Nina M., Buckley, Kathleen M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.09.2016; W.B. Saunders Company/JNL
• Subjects: Collaborative learning; College students; Constructivism; Cooperative Behavior; Education, Nursing; Humans; Impact analysis; Internet; Internet resources; Internet-based learning; Knowledge; Learning; Medical education; Nursing; Nursing education; On-line learning; Online databases; Selection criteria; Social media; Social Media - utilization; Students, Health Occupations - psychology; Uncertainty; Wiki; Writing; United States > US; Wiki; Social media; Constructivism; On-line learning; Internet-based learning
• ISSN: 8755-7223; 1532-8481
• DOI: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2016.01.007

Although wikis appear to have been reported as effective tools for educators, uncertainty exists as to their effectiveness in achieving student learning outcomes. The aim of this integrative review was to examine the current evidence on the impact of wikis on student learning in courses requiring collaborative or co-developed assignments or activities. The authors searched several electronic databases for relevant articles and used R. Whittemore and K. Knafl’s (2005) integrative review method to analyze and synthesize the evidence. Twenty-five articles met the selection criteria for this review, and four major themes for wiki use were identified: (a) writing skills, (b) collaboration, (c) knowledge acquisition, and (d) centralized repository. Although wikis have been found useful in improving student learning outcomes and hold great potential as an instructional strategy to aid students in learning various skills and gaining new knowledge, more research is needed on their effectiveness, especially in the area of nursing education. •Wikis facilitate student writing skills, group collaboration, and knowledge acquisition.•Student learning outcomes are improved with wikis, mediating the learning context.•Wikis support the development of a community of learners through cognitive and social engagement.