I really like the idea of adding information to local or subject specific wiki, because Wikipedia can be very intimidating and time-consuming. I understand that Wikipedia has its coalition of very active editors that will revert or delete your content if it doesn't comply to the Wikipedia standards, which can teach students (in a very real way) that citations and authoritative information is important. But the flip side of that is the wiki-speak and jargon, the fighting among editors, the technology learning curve (which I think is higher than other wikis), and the lack of support from current editors. Save for an in-person Wikipedia edit-a-thon surrounding a particular topic with a friendly group, Wikipedia may present cognitive distractions that inhibit learning. Using a local wiki not only connects students to their local communities, but, I imagine, presents less distractions and more opportunity to learn.

This is a great idea. Students adding to a public forum, such as a local wiki, might be more likely to extend themselves to do a credible job. And, it could be both exciting and rewarding for them to see how they can participate directly in the creation of knowledge. I see this project having a particular impact in the area of journalism, or in the use and promotion of a local archive. The project also allows each person to focus on an area or subject of particular interest to themselves, thereby increasing a connection to their contribution.