Patrick W. Curley, Ed.D. Director of Outreach

Citizen Science involves the participation of the wider community (particularly non- scientists) in scientific projects.

 Enables extensive data collection Data can be collected by the community and submitted via online survey instruments, or materials can be collected and delivered to researchers. Scientists benefit from data collected over a large area, or over a long period of time. Data and materials can also be collected from areas that are normally difficult to access, such as private property.

 The public is informed of scientific results and engaged in the outcomes through ownership of their own contributions. By participating in a project, community members get a chance to inform scientists, and, in the process, learn more about their environment. Information gained through Citizen Science projects can change public perceptions of the natural world, promote interaction with nature, and engage the community in the management of natural resources. Community-gathered information, presented back to the community, can have considerable benefits. Because it represents the voice of the community, such information can strongly influence the attitudes and behavior of individuals.

Exciting experiences in STEM early on, in elementary and middle school, to capture their interest and spark a lifelong passion. Solving a real-world problems, discovering phenomenon on one's own, becoming insatiably curious about a puzzling question, or designing and creating an invention. Collecting and analyzing real data. Students see themselves in the role of a scientist, technologist, engineer, or mathematician, which often requires and association with role models.

Starting a Citizen Science Project

Look for an existing project that has gone through the trial-and- error phase. Research environmental groups in your surrounding area, then partner with them to create your own projects. Be clear about your expectations and goals with your scientific partners. Be clear with your students about your expectations.. Make sure the project allows for inquiry-based learning. Find a hands-on task that sparks their interest but doesn’t scare them or compromise their safety. Mix up the learning experience by bringing in scientific speakers or attending events

 Choose a Scientific Question  Form an team: scientist/educator/technology/evaluator  Develop, test, refine protocols, data forms and educational support materials  Recruit and Train participants  Accept, edit and display data  Analyze and interpret data  Disseminate the results and outcomes