1. Strategic approaches to citizen science in RPOs

This module is dedicated to empowering learners with the knowledge and skills required to develop successful strategies and policies that promote the integration of CS within their RPOs. Learners will delve into real-world examples of successful CS strategies and policies implemented by various institutions. Furthermore, the module will introduce the principles of strategic planning within RPOs, facilitating the seamless integration of CS methodologies. By the end of this training, learners will possess valuable insights into the significance of strategic thinking, policy formulation, and planning, all of which are essential for fully realizing the potential of CS as a recognized research methodology within their organisations.

Module description: 

What?

How?

Why?

Introduction to the module

Text, explaining how we are going to introduce the topic of citizen science strategies and policies, with two examples of different policy documents that were developed and enacted in two different contexts 

Explaining to the learner why this section is relevant to understanding citizen science strategy and policy-making

Example of successful CS strategy implementation in RPO

Telling the story of the NOAA Citizen Science Strategy, which outlines a path for the agency to engage the public in support of key mission areas and aligns with the US Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science Act 

Demonstration of an institutional policy that connects citizen science to key mission areas and national policy

Example of development of national CS strategy

Telling the story of the German citizen science strategy, which contains 94 concrete recommendations for action to further develop citizen science in Germany and anchor it permanently in science, society and politics

Demonstration of a national policy that seeks to anchor citizen science permanently in scientific institutions and society 

Strategic planning in RPOs with particular attention to citizen science (2 min)

Going over the three planning imperatives - leadership, communication, assessment - with special emphasis on linking assessment and planning

Helping learners to develop their thinking about strategic processes in RPOs with special attention to assessment and planning



Slide available in slide deck.