A triangulated investigation of using wikis for project-based learning in different undergraduate disciplines

Edwin Chu; Michele Notari; Katherine Chen; Chi Keung Chan; Samuel Chu; Wendy Wu

This study investigates the use of wiki to support project-based learning (PBL) in 3 undergraduate courses of different disciplines: English Language Studies, Information Management, and Mechanical Engineering. This study takes a methodological triangulation approach that employs the use of questionnaires, interviews, and wiki activity logs. The level of activities and the types of core actions captured on wiki varied among the three groups of students. Students generally rated positively on the use of wiki to support PBL, while significant differences were found on 9 items (especially in the “Motivation” and “Knowledge Management” dimensions of the questionnaire) among students in the three different disciplines. Interviews revealed that these differences may be attributable to the variations in the natures and scopes of the PBL, as well as in the different emphases that students placed on the work presented on the wiki. This study may provide directions on the use of wiki in PBL in undergraduate courses.

A PDF file will be made available on August 5, 2013, through the WikiSym + OpenSym 2013 conference proceedings.