Edit-a-thons effective for new editors

Community events provide the perfect opportunity for new editors to learn about Wikipedia projects, connect with like-minded individuals, and develop their editing skills. The recent New Zealand Species Edit-a-thon was no exception to this. 

New editor Pablo came along to the edit-a-thon after learning about it on Facebook earlier that morning.

“I decided to attend as I love Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush and nature and geeks and it seemed a perfect combination!”

As a frequent Wikipedia reader who had only made a handful of edits in the past, Pablo appreciated the assistance of experienced editors in getting an account set up and learning how best to add value.

The edit-a-thon was run over two separate days, which took place two weeks apart. This approach proved successful, as it gave the new editors a chance to reinforce their skills, ask questions, and receive feedback in a timely manner by coming back on day two. 

With the numbers of experienced and new editors close to even, new editors were able to be tutored one-to-one, adding further to the success of the event. 

Pablo has thoroughly enjoyed his experience as a new Wikipedia editor so far.

“It’s great. Lots to read to get up to speed with formats and ways of editing and fact checking. It’s very exciting.”

You can read the full report on this edit-a-thon here.