Strategy, evaluation, and impact for citizen science

3. Interactive session: Expanding assessment criteria for research rewards

This module provides learners with the opportunity to work collaboratively on either their own CS project or the hypothetical “Pollinator Paradise” project provided in the handout. The main objective is to collectively brainstorm and design assessment criteria for the chosen CS project, focusing on scientific, societal, and learner impacts. To guide their efforts, learners can refer to the Measuring Impact for Citizen Science (MICS) domains and indicator clusters outlined in the handout. Each group will create a flip chart sheet presenting their assessment criteria, providing a clear explanation of the criteria and the rationale behind them. This activity fosters a deeper understanding of the multifaceted assessment process in CS, ensuring that projects are evaluated comprehensively and effectively.

Module description:

What?	How?	Why?
Project selection	In smaller groups, learners choose to work either own CS project or the hypothetical CS project called “Pollinator Paradise”. If they opt for the latter option, they will familiarize themselves with the project as outlined in the handout.	Providing learners with a tailored learning experience. This allows them to apply assessment criteria directly to their own projects or gain valuable experience by working with a hypothetical case, ensuring the relevance of the activity to their specific needs.
Brainstorming on assessment criteria	Learners will collaboratively brainstorm and design assessment criteria for the chosen citizen science project. The groups should consider the scientific impact, societal impact, and learner impact. If necessary, refer to the MICS domains and indicator clusters provided in the handout for guidance.	Encouraging learners to consider diverse perspectives and enhancing the quality of assessment criteria. They gain a holistic understanding of the multifaceted nature of CS evaluation, preparing them to evaluate real-world projects effectively.
Flip chart creation	Each group creates a flip chart sheet outlining the assessment criteria. The learners are encouraged to be creative in their thinking about the criteria and how they are presented visually.	Fostering creativity and visual communication skills. Encouraging learners to think critically about how to present assessment criteria effectively, a valuable skill in the communication of complex ideas in the academic and professional world.
Presentation and feedback	The groups present their flip chart with their assessment criteria. Presentations should explain the criteria and the reasoning behind them. Feedback is provided from other groups and the facilitator.	Promoting public speaking and presentation skills as well as critical feedback from peers and the facilitator to ensure that learners receive diverse perspectives, helping them refine and improve their assessment criteria.

Slide available in slide deck.