Learning patterns/Fear of editing

Learning Pattern Library

Fear of editing

problemEven with an Oxford degree, I don't feel qualified to edit.

solutionReduce the barrier to enter the community of editors.

creator• N/A (wanna be editor)

created on11 September, 2014

Live Learning Pattern Wall This Learning Pattern was handwritten during Wikimania 2014 Learn more about Program Evaluation team's presence at the conference in London.

What problem does this solve?

«I have a degree from Oxford and I don't feel qualified to edit. Sure others feel the same and could contribute a lot of knowledge.»

«Ditto from Cambridge! I find the extensive use of jargon and initials intimidating. If you turn up as a newbie, other editors are friendly, but they assume you know stuff already. This is not possible without immersion in the organization.»

What is the solution?

«Reduce the barrier to enter by making our knowledge feel relevant.»

New users should look for help in projects like en:Wikipedia:Teahouse, where experienced editors guide new users in the essentials of contributing, as well as other aspects to editing Wikipedia.

«Just try! I had the same feeling while editing in my field of expertise. Get used to wiki life by doing small edits in other areas that interest you. I think after a while you'll feel and realize anything you do is actually useful. Give it a try and stick with us! =) » (posted by ESM)

Endorsements

• N/A (wanna be editor)
• N/A (wanna be editor) 2
• María C.
• ESM

See also

• English Wikipedia Teahouse
• Civility, one of the five pilars of Wikipedia
• Wikipedia:Please do not bite the newcomers

Related patterns

• Mix newcomers and veterans
• Best practices in training adults
• Creating new articles
• New users are afraid of doing something wrong
• Help the "deletionists' victims"

Other Learning Patterns from Wikimania 2014

• Translation
• New users are afraid of doing something wrong
• Help the "deletionists' victims"
• Wikipedia visual museum