Turned 70? It is time to start editing Wikipedia

TL;DR

This paper investigates engaging elderly volunteers in Wikipedia editing, highlighting their willingness to contribute and proposing necessary editor improvements based on user studies and interviews.

Contribution

It introduces a framework for involving older adults in Wikipedia editing and identifies key modifications needed in the editing interface.

Findings

Older adults are willing to contribute to Wikipedia.

Significant interface changes are required to facilitate elderly editing.

User-centered design improves elderly engagement.

Abstract

Success of Wikipedia would not be possible without the contributions of millions of anonymous Internet users who edit articles, correct mistakes, add links or pictures. At the same time Wikipedia editors are currently overworked and there is always more tasks waiting to be completed than people willing to volunteer. The paper explores the possibility of involving the elderly in the Wikipedia editing process. Older adults were asked to complete various tasks on Wikipedia. Based on the observations made during these activities as well as in-depth interviews, a list of recommendation has been crafted. It turned out that older adults are willing to contribute to Wikiepdia but substantial changes have to be made in the Wikipedia editor.