Many students have already realized the full potential of Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, but for some reason it has been scorned by teachers. Part of an online collection of useful tools made by the nonprofit organization, Wikimedia Foundation Inc., Wikipedia allows anyone to instantly access information about almost every conceivable subject (hence the name wiki, which is derived from the Hawaiian word for quick, wiki wiki). Formally launched on January 15, 2001, it has since risen in popularity by the day.

Many arguments against Wikipedia are founded upon the fact that it can be edited by anyone at any time. It is this feature, ironically, that makes it so great. Even with the multiple cases of vandalism, the devoted Wikipedians are constantly on the lookout for incorrect information, and the website monitors the content of relatively new editors. Also, the list of references and links at the bottom of the article allows for verification of facts.

Whether for just browsing the web or doing research for school, the advantages to Wikipedia are undeniable. With a featured article of the day, a variety of useful tools, multiple languages, and links that connect articles to each other, it is possible to access almost all kinds of information imaginable.