The online encyclopedia Wikipedia is implementing artificial intelligence, but not to replace volunteers, but to facilitate technical processes, according to a new statement from the Wikimedia Foundation outlining its AI strategy.
"The community of volunteers behind Wikipedia is the most important and unique element of Wikipedia’s success. For nearly 25 years, Wikipedia editors have researched, deliberated, discussed, built consensus, and collaboratively written the largest encyclopedia humankind has ever seen. Their care and commitment to reliable encyclopedic knowledge is something AI cannot replace," the statement said.
Through this approach, Wikipedia will start using AI not to replace real people, but to focus on specific areas where generative AI has some success. Among these areas is Wikipedia moderation, which automates "tedious tasks in support of knowledge integrity." AI will also be used to improve the accessibility of information on the platform, "to leave more time for human deliberation, judgment, and consensus building."
In addition, AI will be used to help editors share local perspectives or context by automating translation and adaptation of common topics. In addition, AI will be used to scale the onboarding of new Wikipedia volunteers through guided mentoring.