Training modules/dashboard/slides/12102-introduction
Introduction to Editing Events
[edit]Wikipedia editing events often come in different types, with different goals, for example:
- editathons -- event focused on a particular topic, with the goal of building awareness about gaps on Wikipedia and introducing new editors to that topic
- backstage passes -- events focused on exposing the collections, process or specialized knowledge of a cultural or research institution
- editing workshops/trainings -- events where building editing skills among participants is more important than creating content
- editing meetups -- events organized to support more experienced editors creating content, that are frequently scheduled at a regular time or place
- micro-contribution events -- in person events that focus on fixing a particular type of problem or adding small repeated contributions
This training focuses largely on the more thematic content-creation focused events, frequently called "editathons," while having advice or guidance that would be appropriate for other kinds of editing events. Editathons come in many shapes and sizes, from small events that last only an hour with a few people, to 72 hour events that include dozens of contributors. These events cover all kinds of topics, including, but not limited to:
- filling the gender gap, for example by covering women scientists or artists
- developing representation of indigenous knowledge or languages to fill systemic bias gaps on the web
- sharing deep knowledge from experts or institutions
- filling gaps about local history or heritage sites
Running an editathon or other editing event requires several different things: time, a space to gather, event runners who can facilitate understanding of Wikimedia projects, and a willing audience who wants to learn how to contribute to Wikimedia projects. Facilitating these gatherings can be challenging and involve many details.