Blogging through Wikipedia (2024)

  1.Summary This semester, I diligently participated in the task of editing Wikipedia, which has given me new perspectives on academic assignments. Firstly, compared to traditional classroom tasks, editing Wikipedia introduced me to a completely different learning method and experience. In traditional assignments, we typically demonstrate our understanding and grasp of course content to our teachers. These assignments are often aimed at achieving specific grade standards and typically end upon completion. Editing Wikipedia, however, is entirely different. It requires our contributions to be public, accessible, and usable by people worldwide. This openness makes me feel that my efforts can have an impact on a broader community, rather than just aiming for a score. Secondly, editing Wikipedia has taught me how to collaborate with others and to respect and adhere to the community's norms and guidelines. During the editing process, I'm not just completing a task but participating i...

  1.Summary The "Did You Know" (DYK) section on Wikipedia is a project page aimed at showcasing newly created or expanded articles selected through an informal review process. These articles must adhere to a set of criteria, including novelty, sufficient length, factual citations, and compliance with Wikipedia's content policies. The goal of DYK is to highlight new and improved content while encouraging editors to continue contributing and enhancing Wikipedia. DYK differs from other sections of Wikipedia by emphasizing newly created or significantly expanded content that may not necessarily be among the highest quality featured articles but demonstrates Wikipedia's ongoing expansion and improvement. Editors can nominate their own or others' work for DYK and are required to provide an interesting "hook," which is a noteworthy fact extracted from the article, at the time of nomination. Selected articles are featured in the DYK section on Wikipedia's ma...

  1.Summary Categories play a crucial role on platforms like Wikipedia and other MediaWiki-based sites, serving as tools to organize and classify articles. They operate through simple wiki markup syntax (e.g., [[Category ]]), automatically aggregating pages related to specific topics into designated category lists. Firstly, categories facilitate easier browsing and searching of articles relevant to particular subjects. For instance, if a page is categorized under [[Category ]], it will appear automatically on the "Animals" category page. This method not only enhances discoverability of related pages but also aids users in exploring new topics, thereby expanding their knowledge base. Secondly, categories can be organized hierarchically through subcategories, enhancing clarity and orderliness among pages. For example, Wikipedia categories may feature multi-level structures, such as "Animals" with subcategories like "Mammals," "Birds," and so forth....

1.Summary Wikipedia articles have evolved through several stages, starting from blank entries to high-quality featured articles, showcasing the achievements of community collaboration and knowledge sharing. Initially, each Wikipedia article is typically authored by contributors. The initial creation of an entry may consist of a brief stub, containing basic information and definitions. These early entries attract more editors and experts to participate, laying the groundwork for subsequent development. Over time, the Wikipedia community expands and enhances these entries continuously. Editors add more content, cite reliable sources, and improve the comprehensiveness and authority of the articles. This phase is crucial in the development of articles as through extensive collaboration and editing, entries gradually become more detailed and accurate. Ultimately, some articles undergo rigorous review processes and community voting, becoming recognized as featured articles. These articles ar...

  1.Summary Wikimedia Commons is an open multimedia repository maintained by global volunteers. It provides free-licensed photos, images, audio, and video resources for all Wikimedia projects like Wikipedia and Wiktionary. These resources are freely usable, either in the public domain or under specific free licenses. Users can upload their own work, ensuring it complies with global permissions for free use, modification, and sharing. The goal of Wikimedia Commons is to centralize a repository where anyone can access and utilize high-quality multimedia resources, supporting the free dissemination of knowledge globally. Supported by an active community of administrators and contributors, they review and manage uploaded content to ensure compliance with copyright and usage guidelines. Technically, Wikimedia Commons employs the same MediaWiki engine as other Wikimedia projects, allowing users to upload files in various formats and resolutions, constrained by server and browser limitati...

  1.Summary Remix culture is an artistic phenomenon that involves recombining, editing, or creating new works from existing materials. It extends beyond music to encompass video, images, literature, and more. At its core, this cultural form merges different elements and ideas to produce unique works that convey personal style while reflecting contemporary trends. Professor Lawrence Lessig is a prominent advocate of remix culture, advocating for knowledge sharing and cultural openness. He argues that traditional copyright restrictions hinder the free flow of creativity. With the proliferation of digital technology and the internet, remix activities have gained unprecedented popularity. Digital tools and platforms enable easy access, editing, and sharing of works, fostering cultural exchange and innovation. Remix culture underscores the rise of a read/write culture, where consumers are no longer passive recipients but actively engage with and potentially remix cultural products. This...

 T he first material Summary This Wikipedia page introduces a list of pranks on Wikipedia itself, including documented instances of historical pranks. It emphasizes that a prank is defined as intentionally presenting false information deceptively as fact, distinct from defamation and deliberate vandalism. Pranks may evade detection for over a month or be listed after being discussed by reliable media sources. The article also mentions categories of pranks, including admitted pranks, carefully crafted hoaxes, and pranks resulting from the disruptive patterns of contributors. Furthermore, it notes that successful pranks typically receive less traffic each day but may survive longer on Wikipedia, and long-standing successful pranks may include some "wiki-like" markings and fewer links. The article also mentions cases of false statements being added to other genuine pages, which could be the result of errors or made in good faith rather than being pranks. Interesting Points The a...

  Summary Wikipedia has strict standards for reliable sources and provides detailed guidelines to help editors and readers identify and assess the credibility of information sources. Firstly, Wikipedia emphasizes restrictions on dubious sources and sponsored content, including extremist websites, sponsored content, and self-published materials. Secondly, self-published sources are deemed unreliable, especially when involving independent information about others. Thirdly, Wikipedia does not accept user-generated content as sources due to their lack of editorial oversight and fact-checking. In specific cases, Wikipedia provides guidance on different types of sources, including what editors should consider in biographies of living persons, medical claims, academic consensus, and more. Finally, Wikipedia explicitly states that deprecated sources should not be used to support factual statements, as these sources are often deprecated due to historical fabrication or other serious issues....

  1. Cory Doctorow's commentary: In his review, Cory Doctorow points out that "Radical Collaboration" provides compelling evidence for the unique aspects of Wikipedia. He argues that what makes Wikipedia most appealing isn't its content per se, but the culture of collaboration that underpins it. This culture is marked by controversy, self-reflection, and a blend of amusement and seriousness. This perspective demonstrates the charm of Wikipedia as an open platform and its fundamental difference from traditional encyclopedic models. 2. Mayo Fuster Morell's commentary: Mayo Fuster Morell praises "Radical Collaboration" for pioneering the use of ethnographic methods in studying Wikipedia. Particularly, the book delves into the cultural and historical specificity of Wikipedia, offering crucial clues to understanding the essence of this open content community. Through the application of ethnographic methods, we gain deeper insights into the operational mechani...

  1. Summary This passage summarizes Wikipedia as a complex community and its role in constructing a comprehensive encyclopedia. Wikipedia symbolizes the collective effort where everyone contributes to a common goal, much like pieces in a puzzle where each contributes to the whole. However, despite Wikipedia's pursuit of neutrality and integrity, there are still challenges and controversies within the community, such as content abuse and conflicts among editors. The complexity of online communities makes it easy for people to fall into the trap of conflicts, especially in anonymous and distant environments. While technology plays a crucial role in Wikipedia's success, the spirit of collaboration and cultural norms within the community are equally important. The success of Wikipedia depends not only on technology but also on the community's culture and values. An open, collaborative community culture is key to Wikipedia's excellence. Although Wikipedia will continue to e...

Summary  This material mainly covers the definition and evolution of the role of Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales within the Wikipedia community. Initially referred to as a "benevolent dictator," Wales leaned more towards likening himself to a British monarch, emphasizing that his power is constrained. He served in an advisory role within the community, attempting to help community members think with a broader perspective and find the best ways to interact to accomplish Wikipedia's important work. Wales emphasized the manner in which he used his authority, stating that he wouldn't enforce decisions but rather serve as a guarantor for the community's choice of solutions. His concerns about leadership roles and the abuse of authority are evident, as he believed that his words and actions might be overused to support certain positions. While the concept of constitutional monarchy has been accepted within the community, discussions regarding the concept of a "ben...

Summary This material provides a thorough analysis of the operational mechanisms and various challenges faced by open content communities. Firstly, open communities aim to achieve information sharing and free discussion, yet must navigate the complex balance between core values such as transparency, integrity, and non-discrimination. This implies that communities must strive to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of information while maintaining openness to attract diverse participants and preserve inclusivity. Secondly, defining the boundaries of a community becomes a crucial issue. Community boundaries are not merely open or closed; they require finding a balance between openness and closure. This involves addressing power dynamics and decision-making processes within the community, as well as managing conflicts and differences among different groups. The case of Wikipedia as an open content community is highlighted. Despite achieving some degree of success, Wikipedia still fac...

Summary These three materials collectively highlight the understanding, interest, and research into the Wikipedia project, along with gratitude towards its participants. They underscore the significance of Wikipedia as an open, free online encyclopedia and emphasize its value as a collaborative community. Authors explore the meaning of Wikipedia from different perspectives and delve into its history and spirit of collaboration. Despite differing in personal experiences and expression, they all demonstrate unique insights and profound understanding of the project. Overall, these three materials collectively convey the importance of Wikipedia as a global collaborative endeavor and underscore its unique value as a platform for sharing knowledge. Interesting point Although Wikipedia is a project driven by volunteers, its impact is significant. This is highlighted in the material, emphasizing Wikipedia's status as a top-tier website and its contribution to defining ethical standards and...

  1.Summary   The above materials delve into the birth, development, and relationship of Wikipedia with early web and other online encyclopedic projects. Firstly, the evolution of the Web is introduced, including the visions of Tim Berners-Lee and Ted Nelson, as well as the emergence of early web browsers. Secondly, the origin of Wikipedia is described, including the challenges faced by the Nupedia project and the introduction and acceptance of the Wiki concept, ultimately leading to the birth of Wikipedia as an independent online encyclopedia platform. Then, the rapid development of Wikipedia after its establishment is emphasized, attracting a large number of contributors and users, becoming a leading online encyclopedia platform. Next, the challenges and controversies faced by Wikipedia in its development are mentioned, including controversies over expert authority, quality control, management, and conflicts among its founders. Finally, the section ends with a quote from a h...

1.Summary Ensuring that the content added to Wikipedia doesn't violate copyright is crucial. Firstly, prioritize materials from the public domain or those with free licenses, and cite sources correctly. Secondly, adhere to Wikipedia's copyright policy, avoiding direct copying from other sources to ensure legality. Additionally, creating original content by incorporating personal viewpoints and summaries is effective. Finally, community review and supervision are essential. Other editors review contributions, and any copyright violations are pointed out and corrected. These methods effectively ensure that content added to Wikipedia doesn't infringe copyright, maintaining the platform's legitimacy, credibility, and promoting knowledge sharing and dissemination. 2.Interesting point The interesting aspect lies in Wikipedia's community review and supervision mechanism. Other editors review our contributions, and if copyright violations are found, modifications or markers...

  1.Summary Why are you taking the class? Last semester's knowledge. I chose this course for this semester because it offers an in-depth understanding of collective intelligence on the internet from a sociological perspective, with Wikipedia being the focal point of our study. As a free and widely used knowledge-sharing platform, Wikipedia holds significant importance for both my personal and professional development. Through this course, I can delve into the history, operation, and significance of Wikipedia using various learning methods such as readings, lectures, discussions, and practical projects. The course provides an opportunity for practical engagement by allowing me to directly contribute to Wikipedia articles, thus enhancing my understanding of collective intelligence. Additionally, by honing my skills through learning and practice, I am preparing myself adequately for future career endeavors. In summary, I chose this course to enrich my knowledge, enhance my abilities, ...