Wikis: A Knowledge Platform for Collaborative Learning in ESL Reading

Wikis provide an effective technological tool to meet the pedagogical goals outlined in the new TESOL Technology Standards (Healey et al., 2009). A wiki, a cross between a website and a word document, is an interactive webpage that allows students to read, generate, and publish content online in an environment of collaboration. The flexibility and simplicity of wikis thus provides an open, user-friendly, and efficient interface for student interaction and collaboration, particularly through virtual English as a second language (ESL) reading groups. This article presents the pedagogical rationale for wikis as a technological tool to foster second language (L2) reading proficiency through communities of practice in virtual ESL reading groups. It includes suggested activities and a consideration of challenges associated with wikis as a pedagogical tool.