What would we do without Wikipedia? The online encyclopaedia is known worldwide for having the answer to every question we ask, with detailed information on everything from celebrity divorces to scientific discoveries.
But what if this source of all knowledge was biased? Around 90% of Wiki-editors (people who add information to Wikipedia) are men, which has led to Wikipedia having fewer and shorter articles about women.
As this bias has become known, women around the world have taken to their keyboards to remedy it; including Dr Jess Wade who has written over 500 articles on women or BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) scientists.
Following a talk by Jess about gender equality for International Women’s Day, the School of Health Sciences hosted a workshop on wiki-editing with Carol Ann Whitehead; managing director of a small business, and equality and diversity advocate.

Carol talked attendees through the issue of gender bias on Wikipedia, and gave top tips on what we can do to fix it. This followed an inspiring talk by Dr Mary Tully about her award-nominated work at the Health e-Research Centre on ‘Data Saves Lives’ a project focused on harnessing data and technology to improve health.

Karolina Kluk-de Kort, Athena SWAN lead commented on the event “It was great to hear so many inspirational stories. I am ready to start editing Wiki! We will definitely be joining Carol Ann on 9th October 2019 for Wiki Edit-a-Thon event on Ada Lovelace day at the Pankhurst Centre ”

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