Wiki coaching 1-to-1 coaching.

#AlkebulanWikiEditStudyGroup

As a wikipedia coach and tutor, I think a 1-to-1 approach to get others involved with Wikipedia is an idea I will be putting into practice. To see each person I assist as an individual that will adapt differently.  

A 1-to-1 coaching method allows me to tailor guidance to each person's learning style and interests, which can increase their engagement and understanding of Wikipedia. 

Since everyone learns at a different pace and has different areas of curiosity, this personalized approach will help them feel more comfortable contributing, whether they are creating new articles, editing existing content, or uploading media to Wikicommons.

Starting by assessing their familiarity with Wikipedia and identifying what excites them about contributing. This way, I  can focus on their strengths while gradually introducing them to more complex aspects of editing and content creation. By providing tailored tasks and regular feedback, I  can foster their confidence and encourage long-term involvement. 

Strategies to enhance this coaching model?

Some tips and strategies to enhance 1-to-1 Wikipedia coaching and tutoring:

1. Assess the Learner's Level

   - Beginning with a conversation: I ask about their familiarity with Wikipedia, any experience editing, and what specific areas interest them (editing, adding photos, creating new articles, etc.).

   - Adapt to their knowledge level: If they're beginners, start with basic concepts like how Wikipedia works, its guidelines, and the sandbox for practice. For advanced users to focus on advanced editing tools or policy understanding.

2. Setting Clear and Personalized Goals

   - Tailoring tasks to their interests: If they’re passionate about a particular subject (e.g., history, science, local culture), I will.encourage them to contribute to that area. This will make the learning experience more relevant and engaging.

   - Create mini-goals: Break down complex tasks like creating an article or adding references into smaller, achievable steps. This helps build confidence.

 3. Start with Hands-On, Practical Lessons

   - Begin with editing existing articles: This lets them understand the basics without the pressure of creating new content. Show them how to make small edits, add citations, or correct typos.

   - Use the Sandbox feature: This is a safe space for them to practice without making live changes to Wikipedia. They can test editing, adding infoboxes, or creating new sections.

4. Teach the "Wikipedia Way"

   - Explain core policies: Introduce them to the key principles of Wikipedia, such as Neutral Point of View (NPOV), Verifiability, and No Original Research. These are critical for maintaining Wikipedia’s integrity.

   - Show how to use references: Demonstrate how to add reliable sources and citations. Newcomers often struggle with this, so hands-on practice here is valuable.

5. Walk Through the Visual Editor

   - Start with the Visual Editor: Many beginners find the Visual Editor easier to use. Walk them through formatting text, adding images, creating hyperlinks, and using templates.

   - Switch to Source Editor for Advanced Users: For more experienced learners, teach them how to use the source editor for precise control over formatting and complex templates.

6. Encourage Collaboration

   - Get them involved in Wikipedia Projects: Introduce them to WikiProjects that align with their interests. This not only helps them find articles that need work but also connects them with the Wikipedia community.

   - Teach them talk page etiquette: Show how to use article talk pages to discuss edits, seek advice, or suggest improvements. Understanding communication within the Wikipedia community is key to long-term success.

7. Use Real-Life Examples

   - Demonstrate article creation step-by-step: If their goal is to create a new article, guide them through the process of choosing a notable topic, drafting in the sandbox, and gradually adding content, sources, and citations.

   - Review articles together: Pick an article related to their interests and go over how it was structured, sourced, and written. This can serve as a model for their contributions.

8. Offer Constructive Feedback

   - Review their work: After they make edits or create content, go over it together. Offer encouragement and specific suggestions for improvement.

   - Reinforce Wikipedia guidelines: Gently correct any mistakes by relating them to Wikipedia’s core policies. For example, if their writing sounds biased, remind them of NPOV.

 9. Provide Ongoing Support

   - Be available for follow-up: Newcomers may have questions after your session. Offer to check in on their edits periodically, and encourage them to reach out when needed.

   - Create a shared resource guide: Offer a curated list of helpful links, like Wikipedia’s Help Pages, tutorials, and community forums. This allows them to explore and learn independently between coaching sessions.

10. Celebrate Milestones

   - Acknowledge their achievements: Whether they’ve made their first edit or successfully created an article, celebrate their progress. This builds their confidence and motivation to continue contributing.

   - Encourage them to mentor others: Once they gain confidence, encourage them to help new users, creating a ripple effect of knowledge sharing.

By using these strategies, I can make the learning process engaging, empowering, and adapted to each individual’s needs, ensuring they become confident and regular contributors to Wikipedia.