While Wikipedia has been banned by some academics as a source for student essays, the University of East Anglia in the U.K. has made it compulsory for students to use the online encyclopedia for reading and writing as part of a new course. The students are graded on editing and writing articles on Middle East politics for Wikipedia.
Dr. Nicola Pratt, a lecturer in international relations, believes that Wikipedia provides a great opportunity for students to learn how knowledge is produced. Her postgraduate students studying for a master’s degree in international relations and development are assessed on editing eight Wikipedia articles to enhance quality and balance. They are also required to write their own article.
While the students are challenged with their assignments especially with a lot of reading required, Dr. Pratt has observed improvements. Although she does not recommend Wikipedia as a good source for student essays, being aware of how it is formed gives students the chance to develop their ability. Dr. Pratt also hopes to use her pilot teaching mode to undergraduate students.
