Citizen Science Research Design and Methods

3. Interactive session: Employing a decision framework to determine whether your ideas are suitable for citizen science

In this hands-on session, learners will employ a decision-making framework to determine if their project ideas align with the principles and practices of CS. This session aims to cultivate engagement, critical evaluation, and collective strategizing. By its conclusion, learners should have a clear understanding of how to integrate their projects within the citizen science framework.

Module description:

What?	How?	Why?
Group discussion	Participants discuss the various aspects of their projects, such as the research question, target community, expected outcomes, and potential challenges. They are encouraged to share their project ideas or existing projects.	Engaging in group discussions allows participants to share diverse perspectives and ideas, enriching their understanding of the practical applications of citizen science.
Applying the framework	Each participant or group applies the decision framework to their project idea or existing project. This involves systematically evaluating their project against the criteria outlined in the framework.	Systematically applying the decision framework to specific projects helps participants critically analyze the suitability of citizen science for their research objectives.
Identifying opportunities and challenges	Participants identify the opportunities that CS could bring to their project, such as increased data collection, broader public engagement, and enhanced community relevance. They also discuss potential challenges, including managing volunteer contributions, ensuring data quality, and addressing ethical considerations.	This phase encourages participants to think creatively and realistically about the benefits and hurdles of incorporating citizen science, fostering a balanced perspective.
Presentation and feedback	Participants or groups present their assessments in a two-minute pitch, outlining whether CS is suitable for their project and why. Presentations are followed by a feedback session, where peers and/or facilitators provide constructive comments, alternative perspectives, and suggestions for improvement.	Presenting assessments and receiving feedback cultivates a collaborative learning environment and enhances participants’ ability to articulate and refine their project ideas.
Conclusion and reflection	The session concludes with participants reflecting on their learning experience. They consider how the decision framework has influenced their understanding of the applicability of CS to their research.	Reflecting on the session's activities solidifies learning and allows participants to internalize the decision-making process for future application in their research projects.

Slide (available in slide deck)