Citizendium Project blends expert knowledge with the power of many
>>Print ViewPublication Date: 11/20/2006
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With the help of Wikipedia.com co-founder Larry Sanger and a Purdue assistant professor of communication, the online user editable Web site is taking on a new role.
A new wiki called the Citizendium Project, created by Sanger, is an independent and experimental new site, which will mix the original Wikipedia's open forum state of mind with a community of accountable professionals and students alike.
Sorin Matei, an associate professor of communication, said in an e-mail that he was thrilled to be working on the project.
"I think that the idea to combine expert knowledge with the power of many is very timely and will produce a wonderful synergy of talents and ideas," said Matei.
He is also pleased with the new editorial process. He said it is "more complex" as it encourages the general public to get involved and share their knowledge. This in turn will be "vetted" by experts before being added to the site so accuracy will be maintained. No degree or extensive work experience is needed here, just willing and able bodies who feel the need to further the cause.
Sanger said that he and his crew just opened the floor to others in the second phase of the pilot project. Those involved included a journalist from Israel, a graduate student from Columbia Law School, a professor, a few doctors and other distinguished professionals.
There are some doubts though.
"I think that the biggest risk is there won't be enough people interested in participating," said Sanger.
For die hard Wikipedia fans, Sanger assures that the people at the Citizendium are not competing with Wikipedia or trying to put the site out of business.
"We want to out due Wikipedia in doing better work then they have, on the other hand we don't have any desire to shut them down," said Sanger. "Wiki will always have a use."
The Citizendium follows Wikipedia's belief in an ad-free site. They are encouraging sponsorships from companies and foundations looking to get involved. Instead of annoying pop-ups, sponsors will be graciously acknowledged at the bottom of each page.
For further information, visit www.citizendium.org.