Application Of Wikis With Scaffolding Structure In Laboratory Reporting

Abstract

This work demonstrates how a Wiki can be mapped into different learning stages during group- based lab reporting via an adequate scaffolding structure. The scaffolding structure of the Wiki- based group report is comprised of six constructs in sequence: Appendix, Methods, Results, Analysis, Introduction and Conclusion. The scaffolding structure was developed with the intention of integrating a cooperative learning element into the Wiki’s collaborative learning platform. A case study based on a Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) lab was presented in the study to describe in detail how the group lab report was developed with the Dashboard Wiki. The Wiki compiled data from 42 group reports and student feedback. Lab observations were collected to determine if the Wiki with scaffolding structure, as an instructional tool, had a positive impact on student learning.