Empowering citizen science initiatives: Resources, funding, and proposals

3. Interactive session: Creating your citizen science research proposal

This module encourages learners to create their own research proposals for CS projects. During this activity, they choose a funding call from a provided list, brainstorm project ideas that align with the call's objectives, outline their proposals, and obtain feedback from fellow learners. This hands-on exercise equips attendees with the abilities to match their project concepts with actual funding possibilities, thereby enhancing their comprehension of the proposal development process within the CS context.

Module description:

What?	How?	Why?
Funding call selection	Learners choose from a curated list of actual or hypothetical funding calls from various sources, such as government agencies, foundations, and research institutions. Each funding call has a specific focus and criteria.	This session allows learners to gain practical experience in navigating the complex landscape of funding opportunities, enabling them to select the most relevant calls based on their project ideas.
Project brainstorming and proposal outline	Learners individually or in small groups select one of the funding calls and start brainstorming project ideas that align with the call’s objectives and requirements. Learners outline their research proposals based on the chosen funding call. They could include key sections such as project objectives, research methods, anticipated impacts, and budget estimates.	Learners have the chance to transform their project concepts into concrete proposals, developing essential skills in project design, alignment with call objectives, and proposal structuring.
Peer discussion	Learners exchange their project ideas within their groups or with a partner. They provide feedback, suggestions, and ask critical questions to refine each other's proposals.	Through peer interactions, learners benefit from diverse perspectives and constructive feedback, refining their proposals and enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
Presentation and feedback	Each learner or group presents a brief overview of their research proposal to the larger group. Presentations should include the research questions, methodologies, target audiences, and expected outcomes. Learners should further emphasize how their project aligns with the chosen funding call.	Presenting proposals to the larger group fosters communication skills and offers valuable exposure, while feedback from peers sharpens proposal quality.
Feedback and reflection	The facilitator encourages learners to reflect on the feedback they received and how it might improve their proposals.	Reflection on received feedback prompts learners to improve their proposals and encourages a growth mindset.

Slide (available in slide deck)