Quoting what Ryan said below.. Yes, this is something we've thought
about when talking about closing the gap. I did a non-scientific study a
few months back with women Wikimedians, who are English language
speakers. The desire to see female role models and spokes people who are
active editors and vocal participates in the movement is something
desired. I do think that possibility has a real great opportunity to
influence, especially in country's where chapters are prominent (like in
Germany, Netherlands).
I also wholeheartedly believe that knowing the value of what Wikipedia
and related projects *provides* and gives to the world is a really major
draw for those of us who do contribute. I also believe that bad manners,
poor behavior, over burdening policies and the stereotypical "geek
culture" of Wikipedia turns some people off; I don't want to generalize;
this is just me speaking from my own experience as a Wikimedian and what
turns me off in regards to the culture.
If only Oprah was still on the air...I'd love to have seen Sue on Oprah ;-)
-Sarah
[[User:SarahStierch]]
en.wp
On 12/14/11 4:27 PM, Ryan Kaldari wrote:
From the studies and surveys that I've seen
lately, the most prominent
answer seems to be that women see less value in contributing to
Wikipedia than men do (on average). Of course this raises more questions
than it answers, but it could help to focus your efforts. For example,
if you could get Angela Merkel (or other prominent Germans) to create
Wikipedia accounts and promote that in the media, perhaps it would boost
the perception of its importance. Another strategy would be to get
articles about Wikipedia published in media that are targeted to women.
Sorry that's not more scientific, but I hope it's helpful.
Ryan Kaldari
--
Sarah Stierch Consulting
--
Historical, cultural, new media & artistic research & advising.
http://www.sarahstierch.com