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 _______________________________________________ Gendergap mailing list [email protected] https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/gendergap
