Teaching with Wikipedia

School of Information, University of South Florida

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of Wikipedia editing into library and information science education at the University of South Florida, School of Information, from 2021 to 2025. It details the development of a course, “Wikipedia and Knowledge Management,” and the restructuring of “History of Libraries” to incorporate Wikipedia assignments, emphasizing critical thinking and enhancing the digital footprint of Florida’s libraries. Students contributed to Wikipedia articles, adding citations and sections to improve the visibility and reliability of library-related content. The paper also examines a case study on the discoverability of the Sandars and Lyell Lectures, highlighting the limitations of digital indexes and the value of human intervention in bibliographic research. By leveraging Wikipedia, students became skilled editors and contributors, bridging gaps in information access and fostering a trustworthy information ecosystem. The study underscores the importance of librarians as Wikipedians in combating paywalls and ensuring accurate, accessible knowledge.