Whether it is finding out general information about a particular topic or merely "updating" information on a rival university's mascot, Wikipedia is a source of social media that allows its users to post information on certain subjects without any peer review or verification.
Although it is banned from most post-secondary institutions as a credible source of information, it is a great outlet to help layout a general overview of a given topic.
When did it all start?
Established in 2001, Wikipedia has grown to be the world's 8th most visited website, behind sites such as Facebook, Google and Youtube. Translated into 31 languages, it allows users worldwide to access the site, perform searches and add information to topics they have knowledge on.
When will using Wikipedia benefit you most?
For those people who are new to Wikipedia and just discovering all of the information that has been posted on that website, there are various methods to help make searches and information gathering much easier. It is not so much how to use Wikipedia, but when it will be most effective and beneficial for the reader. What is scary is that there are some who possess the same thought process as Steve Carell when it comes to effective Wikipedia usage.
Allegations discrediting Wikipedia
There have been many issues in the past with the validity of information that has been documented on this site. Time magazine wrote an article about the users of Wikipedia and provide examples of a few stories that have been misinformed and that contain untrue facts. A specific example illustrates a 2007 example when a user posted inaccurate information regarding the death of John F. Kennedy Jr.
Joining "Wiki" nation
To further assist those new to Wikipedia and still wondering how to post information on a particular issue, Wikihow provides step by step instructions on how to properly post a topic or contribute to one that has already been made.
You wanna know what I think?
Whatever your opinion on Wikipedia, there is no doubt that it is still a rapid-growing social media outlet. It does not matter if you want to find out about Scientology, where Jessica Alba was born or how much the Dallas Cowboys stadium costs; there will always be users that are eager to give an opinion, whether credible or not.
I stand by the fact that Wikipedia is a very useful source for information once the user learns how to filter the information presented. Because of the nature of the site, it is clear why many institutions do not accept this as a credible information source. However, when it comes to knowing a little about a lot, there is definitely a reason why Wikipedia is one of the most visited sites on the planet.
In case this page was not enough to entice you to learn how to use Wikipedia, visit Casey Mundy's blog for more tips and strategies!
In addition, click here for a list of various "How To" blogs that have been completed by my hard working classmates.
Live.It.Up.
