Welcome and Introduction to the topic area: Support Resources & Infrastructure
Support resources and infrastructure for CS encompass the vital components necessary to facilitate and enhance citizen science initiatives. These resources include but are not limited to funding opportunities, organizational structures, knowledge sharing platforms, communication tools, and governance frameworks. Establishing robust support resources and infrastructure is crucial for ensuring the success, sustainability, and ethical compliance of citizen science projects.
These modules serve as an invaluable resource, offering insights into two vital components of the CS journey: the institutional contact points for CS (CS-ICPs) and the intricate landscape of CS funding. They are designed to achieve several key objectives. First, providing learners with a deeper understanding of the pivotal role played by CS-ICPs within RPOs. Through this exploration, learners will have the opportunity to reflect on the necessity of establishing one or more CS-ICPs within their respective organisations.
Secondly, equipping learners with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the intricate funding ecosystem, spanning organizational, national, and international levels. By the end of these modules, learners will be well-positioned to identify targeted funding opportunities for their CS projects and develop innovative project ideas that align with these opportunities.
Thirdly, the modules introduce learners to the specific ethical and legal requirements that pertain to CS projects.
Intended audiences:
Researchers at all career stages, including researchers who are already running CS projects
Research-support staff and other administrative staff groups in research performing organisations (RPOs) or non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the two modules within this area of 'Support Resources & Infrastructure', the learner will be able to:
Understanding the role of institutional support: Gain an understanding of the critical role that institutional support and infrastructure play in advancing CS initiatives within RPOs.
Creating compelling grant proposals: Acquire insights into strategies for aligning CS research portfolios with funding opportunities and learn the secrets to designing compelling grant proposals.
Ethical and legal awareness: Recognize the ethical and legal considerations inherent in CS projects and their importance in ensuring responsible and compliant research practices.
Embracing CS-ICPs: Comprehend the concept of CS Institutional Contact Points (CS-ICPs) and their significance in providing essential resources and guidance for CS efforts.
Designing Tailored CS-ICPs: Develop practical skills in designing and planning a tailored Institutional Contact Point (CS-ICP) that aligns with the unique needs, goals, and characteristics of their respective organizations, enhancing support for citizen science initiatives.