Wikiversity:Please do not bite the newcomers
 |
You can help develop this proposal, share your thoughts, or discuss its adoption as a Wikiversity policy, guideline, or process. References or links should describe this page as a "proposal". |
Please avoid biting newcomers.
On experience
[edit source]Experience comes with time. Too often online collaborations turn into social cliques where outsiders are disparaged, and those not already in the know are actively discouraged from participating. When you see a new post on an old topic, don't attack the poster as ignorant, naive or of dubious parentage. Simply direct them to the information they are seeking. Treat each new member with great respect. Each new member offers new knowledge, skills, and specialties. Unless they are obviously trying to be malicious, give them a link to a page that offers help, and don’t discourage them.
More on newcomers
[edit source]Newcomers and even experienced Wikiversitians may not be familiar with the policies, scope, or mission of Wikiversity. If someone acting in good faith violates a policy, acts outside the scope, or acts counter productively to the mission of Wikiversity, please do not bite them. Please be sensitive, empathetic, tactful, and considerate when letting a user know there is a more standard, accepted, or "proper" way to do something. Sometimes it is best to let a user know about a policy, or tradition. Sometimes just fixing it yourself and not saying anything is the best course of action, and sometimes it is best to just let the user be and let them figure it out on their own. One should use discernment and good judgment in this regard.
Quotes
[edit source]Everyone at Wikiversity is a newcomer. We are all exploring how to use wiki technology in support of education. We need a "culture of thoughtful, diplomatic honesty... Diplomacy consists of combining honesty and politeness." --Jimbo Wales (December 17, 2006)