Wikipedia:Education Program/Structure proposals/Jami Mathewson Proposal

Please list your name and/or Wikipedia username.

What idea(s) do you have for what the new structure for the U.S. and Canada Wikipedia Education Programs could look like?

I think the new structure should take the form of a parent organization that oversees many localized groups at any participating university. The overarching structure may, in fact, be a new non-profit organization. It should have some full-time staff members to provide resources and support to all local groups, a "board of directors" who approve any major strategic changes (and is made up of both Wikipedians and academics), and local "chapters" to run day-to-day operations at each participating university.

I think the best way to build these chapters on a university level is to engage Teaching and Learning Centers, university libraries, or a similar institution that already exists. These existing institutions already have a lot of necessary infrastructure to provide students with research and editing tools. Their missions align with Wikipedia as well as academia, and they have staff members who already implement similar programs within the scope of their jobs.

I think this program can only expand successfully if we let participants implement the program in a flexible way that aligns with local climate and culture. While the Board of Directors and Staff may develop programming and tools to engage students and improve the program in most cases, local experts will know best how to make it work on their campus.

How would you ensure this new structure involves all key stakeholders, including academics and the Wikipedia community?

A board of directors would comprise both Wikipedians and Professors (or other relevant academics). Staff members would work closely with both communities to bridge the gap on a daily basis and help the program evolve into one that satisfies and mutually benefits all stakeholders. Local chapters would work with Wikipedians to train/teach students about Wikipedia policies/guidelines.

What are potential pitfalls of this approach?

Any other comments about your proposal?