Group 'Edit-a-thon' to improve Wikipedia articles about women in science, held at the Royal Society's library.

Edit-a-thon

The event is open to people who are new to Wikipedia and experienced Wikipedia editors. Female editors are particularly encouraged to attend.

At the workshop representatives from Wikimedia UK will explain how Wikipedia works and be on hand to answer questions about editing and improving Wikipedia articles.

The Society's library holds a rich collection of printed works about women in science, including biographies and works authored by scientists. At the event the Society's librarians will explain more about the collections and provide guidance on finding sources.

The event is being held in conjunction with Ada Lovelace Day, which celebrates the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Before the event the Society will select Wikipedia articles relating to women in science which need improving. Attendees will be encouraged to work together to edit those articles, using the library's resources.

There is a Wikipedia co-ordination page for all editing events associated with Ada Lovelace Day 2012.

Please bring your own laptop if you have one. Alternatively, a limited number of laptops are available. Please contact us if you would like to reserve one. Power points, WiFi and drinks refreshments will be available.

The Edit-a-thon will take place from 2:30pm - 6:00pm.

If you'd like to take part remotely then please join us on Twitter at #WomenSciWP. Articles in our journals, including Biographical Memoirs of Fellows of the Royal Society, will be freely accessible from 19 October 2012 to 29 November 2012 as part of our support for Open Access Week.

Panel discussion

Following the Edit-a-thon there will be a panel discussion led by Uta Frith FRS on women's experiences in science, and diversity in the scientific workforce more generally.

The panel discussion will take place from 6:30pm - 8:00pm

More details to follow.

Attending this event

Both the afternoon and evening events are free to attend and open to all.

Please register for a ticket before attending. 15 places are available for the Edit-a-thon and 65 places for the panel discussion.

Enquiries: Contact library@royalsociety.org.