When the World Helps Teach Your Class: Using Wikipedia to Teach Controversial Issues

Abstract

Assigning students to draft and publish a Wikipedia contribution is no longer a novelty. The pedagogical benefits from assigning a Wikipedia article vary depending on discipline, lesson plan, and how it is incorporated into the class. This research considers how a Wikipedia assignment can effectively overcome common challenges in teaching controversial topics including peer relations, teacher-student power dynamics, and (mis)perceptions of the other.