Wiki How-to
Roll your mouse over each topic at the left for directions or links for how to accomplish each wiki start-up task.
If you haven't done so already, you may want to print out our review of your wiki tool choice for quick reference: Wikispaces or PBworks. (File>print from this new window, then close it to come back here).
I'm ready to go, but can't decide. Show me the wiki tool comparisons again.
I think I'm ready to go on my own. Just give take me to my tool: wikispaces or PBworks. I will scan the topics at left and return later to Light the Wiki.
Wiki How-to
Roll your mouse over each topic at the left for directions or links for how to accomplish each wiki start-up task.
If you haven't done so already, you may want to print out our review of your wiki tool choice for quick reference: Wikispaces or PBworks. (File>print from this new window, then close it to come back here).
I'm ready to go, but can't decide. Show me the wiki tool comparisons again.
I think I'm ready to go on my own. Just give take me to my tool: Wikispaces or PBworks. I will scan the topics at left and return later to Light the Wiki.
Set up a free wiki account
All you need is an email address. Click on a tool to start a free account (opens in new window): Wikispaces or PBworks.
Need help choosing? Compare the tools.
Be SURE to write down your SPACE NAME, user name, and password!
You will have choices during set-up: public, protected, private, invited members only, etc., depending on the tool. Read the choices and decide who should be able to see and work on your wiki. You can always change these settings later.
You will receive a confirming email. Check your junk mail folder if it is not there soon.
Then come back here (we'll still be there at the bottom of your screen) for a step-by-step approach OR... scan through our suggestions, then go play in your new wiki. Even fearless teachers may want to check out our Light the Wiki ideas.
Intro to YOUR Wiki
You may want to watch a video tour at your wiki tool (opens in new window): Wikispaces and PBworks have intro videos. Although the videos are not specifically for education wikis, they show you the very basics. Close that window and come on back here for more.
After you watch the intro, you will want to be sure you can find your wiki again and log in. We do not recommend that you leave your computer logged into the wiki, since someone could use your access to really do some damage!
Minimize this window and open a new Internet window. Type in the address for your new wiki. Mark it in your Favorites! Keep it open as you continue with these steps.
Fix "the look"
You can leave your new wiki exactly as it looks to start, or you can change the colors, etc. Find the options for your tool:
Wikispaces: Go to Manage Space: Look and Feel to change colors and upload an image, if you wish.
PBworks: Settings > Skins (limited options)
You can always make these changes later and surprise your students!
Arrange your space
You do not need to do so at the start, but most teachers like to plan how the "furniture" will be arranged in the wikispace. Keep your wiki open in a new window so you can return to this step-by-step.
Try making a new page within your wiki so it will show in the Navigation area.
Wikispaces: Click "new Page" to create and add content (SAVE!); then "edit navigation" to type the name and make a link to it.
PBworks: Click "new Page" to create and add content (SAVE!); then click "edit" in Sidebar to type the name and make a link to it.
Many teachers make separate pages for each subject, unit topic, project, etc. If your tool permits you to edit the navigation area, prepare pages and show/hide them from navigation as needed. Bring them back next year.
