International Journal of English Research

Authors
Maryam Jazayeri Gharehbagh, Siti Hamin Stapa, Saadiyah Darus

Abstract
Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) tools such as wikis are being used more frequently in language learning situations. Their accessibility and usability have made them a popular choice amongst language teachers; especially in the teaching of writing. This study was conducted to examine students’ perceptions towards providing peer feedback via a wiki-platform. The participants of this study were non-local students who had travelled to Malaysia and had all enrolled in a language centre to learn English in order to further their studies. This study randomly selected 18 of these students; eight male and ten female students; their ages ranging from 18-29. 14 students were asked to write an essay, upload it onto a wiki-platform, and comment on the essays of their peers through the platform. This process was carried out for a total of nine times. At the end of the study, a questionnaire was distributed to inquire about the students’ perceptions of using wikis to collaboratively correct essays with the help of their peers. The findings suggest that the participants had a positive perception on the idea of collaborating through the platform. Hence, a wiki-platform could be used as a medium to encourage interaction and cooperation in learning writing outside the physical and time limitations of a traditional classroom. Teachers will also be able to benefit from the extended time to help students in their essay writing.