Beginning my life as a high school student, I was constantly told to avoid the use of Wikipedia as a source in my essays. I was told it was not an accurate source of information for academic work. However, after talks from this class, I realise Wikipedia is an important tool for gaining preliminary understanding for several topics. It is a huge database made up of millions of users and contributors that share information on a wide range of topics. Being a science student, it is often difficult to find precise information about topics on interest. However, Wikipedia can help provide with information that is not easily found.
Additionally, Wikipedia requires that its editors provide credible cited information to ensure there is no misinformation on any subject. In order to fully utilize Wikipedia, it is important to enroll in the training programs made available. Wikiedu provides free training programs on how to use Wikipedia. It has several training modules that give information on several important aspects of Wikipedia. Students are provided with information on what plagiarism entails and how to properly paraphrase information found in articles. A lot of students like myself do not fully understand how to properly present information found in articles. Before the training module, I found myself using a lot of direct quotes in my research essays. However, I now understand how to properly paraphrase and cite my information. I recommend Wikiedu to any students who does not fully know to use Wikipedia properly
Applied Plant Ecology Winter 2020 