Question

Discuss special considerations for using blogs and wikis in research

Answer 1

Special considerations for using blogs and wikis in research include verifying the validity of information, evaluating the quality control, and considering the opinions and perspectives of the authors.

Step-by-step explanation:

When using blogs and wikis in research, there are several special considerations to keep in mind:

1. Validity of information: Blogs and wikis are user-generated platforms, so the information presented may not always be reliable or accurate. It's important to verify the credibility of the sources and cross-reference the information with other reputable sources.
2. Quality control: Unlike peer-reviewed journals or academic databases, blogs and wikis do not undergo rigorous editorial review. Therefore, it's crucial to critically evaluate the content for bias, errors, or misinformation.
3. Opinions and perspectives: Blogs and wikis often reflect the author's personal opinions and perspectives. It's essential to consider the biases and agendas of the writers while using their content for research purposes.

Answer 2

While most people consider blogs and wikis to be less than credible, in fact a lot can be learned from them. These types of sites are set up so anyone with access to the Internet can contribute, and make their thoughts and ideas public. Wikis are mostly factual accounts; while there may be some facts included, for the most part blogs consist of opinions and experiences.