How to Use Wikipedia Wisely

Summary

The video script challenges the common belief that Wikipedia is unreliable due to its open editing policy. It highlights that while Wikipedia can contain errors, a 2005 study found it comparable to Encyclopedia Britannica in accuracy. The script emphasizes Wikipedia's strength in providing up-to-date information and its utility as a source of references for fact-checking. It argues against discouraging students from using Wikipedia, instead advocating for teaching them to use it wisely, especially as a starting point for evaluating online information.

Takeaways

• 📚 Wikipedia is often consulted by professional fact-checkers despite common misconceptions.
• 🔍 A 2005 study found Wikipedia and Encyclopedia Britannica had similar error rates in science articles.
• 🔒 Not all Wikipedia pages are editable by the public; many high-traffic entries are locked for editing by experienced users only.
• 🚀 Wikipedia's strength lies in its ability to update and correct information quickly, unlike print encyclopedias.
• 📈 It's important to teach students how to use Wikipedia wisely instead of avoiding it altogether.
• 🔎 Fact-checkers use Wikipedia as a starting point and then delve into the sources cited at the end of articles.
• 🤔 The script challenges the assumption that Wikipedia is less reliable than other sources by highlighting its rigorous referencing.
• 🔗 The references section in Wikipedia articles is a gold mine for fact-checkers and students looking for credible sources.
• ❌ The example of the American College of Pediatricians illustrates how Wikipedia can quickly debunk misleading organizations.
• 🔑 Fact-checking involves cross-referencing multiple sources, and Wikipedia can be a valuable part of this process.

Q & A

Why do some educators advise students against using Wikipedia?

Some educators advise against using Wikipedia because it is editable by anyone, which they believe could lead to a high number of mistakes and unreliable information.

What did the 2005 Nature study find about the accuracy of Wikipedia compared to Encyclopedia Britannica?

The 2005 study found that the typical Wikipedia science article had four mistakes, while the typical Encyclopedia Britannica entry contained three mistakes, suggesting that both sources have similar levels of inaccuracies.

How does Wikipedia differ from a print encyclopedia in terms of updating information?

Wikipedia allows for changes to be made almost immediately, which helps keep the information current, unlike print encyclopedias where updates are less frequent.

Are all Wikipedia pages open for editing by anyone?

No, not all Wikipedia pages are open for editing by anyone. Many of the most viewed entries are locked, meaning that only high-level Wikipedians can change them.

What is the main argument for teaching students to use Wikipedia wisely instead of avoiding it?

The main argument is that Wikipedia is one of the most useful tools on the Internet and can be an invaluable resource if used properly, especially as a starting point for evaluating online information.

What do professional fact-checkers look for when consulting Wikipedia?

Professional fact-checkers look for the sources listed at the end of Wikipedia articles, which can serve as a gold mine of references to verify the information presented.

How can Wikipedia help in identifying the credibility of organizations like the American College of Pediatricians?

Wikipedia can help by providing references that substantiate claims about organizations. For example, it includes a letter from a credible source like Francis S. Collins, which can question the trustworthiness of an organization.

What is the significance of the references required by Wikipedia to substantiate claims?

The references required by Wikipedia are significant because they provide evidence and context for the information in the articles, allowing readers to verify the claims and assess the credibility of the sources.

How can students use Wikipedia as a launching pad for evaluating online information?

Students can use Wikipedia as a launching pad by starting their research there and then following the references to original sources to evaluate the credibility and accuracy of the information.

Why is it important to teach students how to use Wikipedia wisely?

It is important to teach students how to use Wikipedia wisely because it can be a valuable resource for information, but it requires critical evaluation of the sources and understanding of its limitations to ensure the information is reliable.

What is the role of multiple sources in fact-checking using Wikipedia?

The role of multiple sources in fact-checking using Wikipedia is to provide a comprehensive and cross-verified view of the information. Fact-checkers do not rely on a single source but examine multiple sources to ensure the accuracy of the information.