Welcome and Introduction to the topic area: Policy & Assessment
Recognizing the critical role of citizen science (CS) as a legitimate research methodology, research performing organisations (RPOs) face the imperative need to adapt their institutional norms, policies, regulations, and agreements. Currently, the academic landscape often lacks explicit acknowledgment of citizen science within its framework. To enable researchers to actively participate in CS projects, it is essential for RPOs to establish clear regulations, policies, and agreements tailored to this unique research approach.
Moreover, RPOs should introduce reward
mechanisms that incentivise researchers to engage in CS initiatives.
Integrating citizen science into the evaluation criteria for researchers
becomes vital, allowing for the measurement of their impact in such projects.
By doing so, RPOs promote a culture that encourages researchers to actively
interact with the public and communities, enhancing their roles as active
contributors to society. Incorporating CS into evaluation criteria
serves as evidence of the RPO’s commitment to inclusivity and community
engagement. Developing explicit mission statements that prioritise citizen
science reinforces the organisation’s dedication to these principles. These
mission statements guide RPOs in aligning their strategies with the core values
and objectives of citizen science, ensuring the seamless integration of this
approach into their research programmes.
The aim of the modules under this topic area is to embed CS in existing strategies and policies of the RPO and to envisage new ones. By the completion of the course, the learners will have a better understanding of strategy- and policymaking processes. The modules will specifically address new institutional norms, regulations, policies, or agreements, including reward mechanisms for CS implementation.
They will provide an overview of the reward system of science, including the diversity of reward mechanisms and assessment criteria for researchers, research projects, and RPOs. Based on analysis of existing reward mechanisms in their own RPO, learners will develop a portfolio of assessment criteria relevant to CS. The final aim of the modules is to connect CS to the wider aims of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) which draws on more established agendas and processes. Several Horizon2020 projects such as RRI Tools and Res-AGorA
have already built resources and tools for incorporating RRI in policy and
institutions.
Intended audiences for the modules within this area of 'Policy & Assessment':
Researchers at all career stages, including researchers who are already running citizen science projects
Research-support staff and other administrative staff groups in research performing organisations (RPOs) or non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Managers in RPOs or NGOs
Learning outcomes:
By the end of the two modules within this area, the learner will be able to:
Recognize the importance of strategic approaches and policies for CS: Understand the significance of developing strategic approaches and policies for CS within RPOs.
Explore successful strategies and policies in CS: Explore real-world examples of successful CS strategies and policies implemented by various institutions.
Understand the role of strategic planning in CS integration: Acquire knowledge of the fundamental concepts of strategic planning and its role in seamlessly integrating citizen science into RPOs.
Investigate broader assessment models in CS: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively evaluate and reward CS contributions, enhancing the recognition and promotion of CS within research institutions.
Align citizen science with Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI): Establish a connection between CS and RRI principles and processes.
Learn from successful projects bridging CS and RRI: Examine real-world examples of projects that successfully bridge CS and RRI, identifying valuable lessons for citizen science initiatives.