To think it was only ten years ago when Wikipedia harnessed all the world’s knowledge, much to the consternation of college professors and scholars across the globe. But hey, it’s impossible they don’t check the ‘pedia themselves on a regular basis.
400 million views a month. 17 million articles. 270 languages. Still growing.
Co-founder Jimmy Wales had these glowing words to commemorate Wikipedia hitting 10 years old:
“It’s hard to imagine that it’s been 10 years since I first edited Wikipedia. I remember that first day. I clicked on ‘Edit’ and I wrote ‘Hello World’, and that was the beginning of Wikipedia and all the things that have come since then.
“I want to thank everyone who has helped. I want to thank all the people who have edited Wikipedia, who have contributed to this great knowledge base. I want to thank everybody who is reading Wikipedia, who is really engaging with ideas and knowledge. That’s what we made it for: we made it for you to read.”
The Evolution of Wikipedia
Since its inception, Wikipedia has undergone significant transformations. Initially, it was met with skepticism and criticism, particularly from academic circles. Concerns about the accuracy and reliability of user-generated content were rampant. However, over the years, Wikipedia has implemented various measures to improve the quality of its articles. These include the introduction of citation requirements, the establishment of editorial guidelines, and the creation of a robust community of volunteer editors who vigilantly monitor and update content.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Wikipedia is its multilingual nature. With articles available in 270 languages, it has become a truly global repository of knowledge. This inclusivity ensures that information is accessible to people from diverse linguistic backgrounds, fostering a more informed and connected world.
Impact on Education and Research
Despite initial resistance from the academic community, Wikipedia has gradually gained acceptance as a valuable educational resource. Many educators now recognize its potential as a starting point for research and a tool for fostering critical thinking skills. Students are often encouraged to use Wikipedia to gain a broad understanding of a topic before delving into more specialized sources.
Moreover, Wikipedia’s open-access model has democratized information. It has bridged the gap between academic research and the general public, making scholarly knowledge more accessible. This has been particularly beneficial in regions where access to traditional educational resources is limited.
Wikipedia’s influence extends beyond formal education. It has become a go-to source for quick information on a wide range of topics, from historical events to pop culture phenomena. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive coverage make it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to expand their knowledge.
Despite the naysayers and fears of quality-content control, Wikipedia has sailed through its greatest hurdles and seems poised to embark on an exciting new decade. It’s also proof that a community of dedicated contributors can render a great public service. Thanks for keeping knowledge free, Wikipedia!
Via Gizmag
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
