njagiello+analysisreflection


 * Analysis and Reflection on use of Wikispaces**

My contributions to the Wikispaces project content wise were done mainly with many improvements to the page “Edutainment/Videogames”, focusing on what value one can get from different genres as well as the impact of violence on society. I also created the pages “Internet Addiction”, where Internet overuse could lead to problems as well something to keep in mind when talking about crossing the digital divide. “Digital Culture: Innovative/Obsolete” was another page I created, which I found the most interesting to write, as the topic got me thinking about how we really aren’t in control of markets as a society, instead we are controlled by them! I’ve also made various minor additions and changes to a number of pages, such as changes to the “Table of Contents”, adding links, fixing mistakes, as well as adding some possible problems with the idea of crossing the digital divide on the “Digital Divide” page.
 * Summary of Contributions:**

The Wikispaces assignment was probably the most interesting one I’ve done in my two years of doing work at UTM. Its an interesting and innovate way of collaborating knowledge, constantly being edited and improved by peers. Practically anything that one adds to Wikispaces would be fixed if it was incorrect, rebuilt if it was difficult to read, added too if not enough information was present, and etc. The ability to throw out an idea that you are not too sure of, and see if people build on it or leave it alone is great, as unlike in essays or group projects that are done with minimal revision, you’ll almost instantly know whether something is acceptable or not in terms of new ideas concerning course theories. I brought up reasons why it would be impossible to cross the digital divide, something I’m sure the professor would disagree with, but judging from how the class received it, it seems to me that I’ve raised valid points. The Wikispaces project was great!
 * Reflections:**

To future students who would be doing similar projects, I’d have to suggest throwing every little idea they have, no matter how small, into the Wiki. Some may not be good, but a few may be excellent and could lead to lots of discussion and building. If you disagree with something said in the course, make a Wiki on it, and back yourself up with logical arguments and research. The entire point of a university experience is to think for yourself, you do not have to agree with everything that is told to you in theory based courses like CCIT. The Wikispaces project is an excellent outlet for such thinking. Also, the development of Wikispaces happened mostly towards the end, due to either workload for students or just simple procrastination. This means that if you start early, you can start off the good topics as well as bringing up anything else that you’d want to talk about, as early on the only viewable pages will be the few that have been added. Additionally, make changes and add your input to other people’s work, no matter how small or trivial. Every little done by everyone adds up to massive improvements for the project.
 * Suggestions:**