Research:Interviewing editors of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump pages

Contact

Chris Alcantara, reporter for The Washington Post

Duration:  2016-October – 2016-November

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Research:Projects

This page documents a completed research project.

I am working on a graphics story for The Washington Post about revisions being made to Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump's Wikipedia pages during the 2016 presidential race. I have done some initial research and gathered data on current revisions. Now, I am interested in talking to Wikipedians who have contributed edits. This project will be primarily powered by graphics and data accompanied with text.

Methods

I am looking for several people to interview, which can be done via email, Skype or phone call. I'm interested in learning about the editing process and how people monitor Clinton and Trump's pages from vandalism while keeping the information as accurate and fair as possile.

Timeline

I am hoping to speak with some folks by Oct. 17. I do not have a fixed deadline yet, but the earlier I could talk to people, the better. Ideally, I would like to have some interviews completed as soon as possible, so I can get this project off the ground before the elections on Nov. 8.

Policy, Ethics and Human Subjects Research

I understand anonymity is important to Wikipedians, and I am willing to work with interviewees about keeping their real identities out of the public view if they do not want that information published.

Results

I am hoping my project will give the public a look into how much work it takes to maintain Clinton and Trump's pages in the midst of a historical presidential race.

Several editors reached out and the story has been published. I want to thank the editors who spoke to me and everyone who helped make this happen.