Citizen science
What is citizen science?
Citizen science is various types of scientific projects and research that involve people (volunteers) who are not professionally engaged in science. The work of volunteers may consist, for example, of making measurements, observations and calculations (these are activities that do not require highly specialized knowledge).
Citizen science provides such people with an opportunity to join scientific projects and participate in the creation of science. For scientists, in turn, the involvement of volunteers can provide significant assistance in conducting research, speeding it up and reducing its costs. Another benefit is a better understanding of science by the public.
Examples of citizen science:
Zooniverse (new window) – the world's largest and most popular platform for research based on collaboration between volunteers and scientists. It was originally named Galaxy Zoo. Nowadays, it features projects from various disciplines, such as art, biology, history, literature, medicine, physics and astronomy.
SciStarter (new window) – brings together people interested in research problems as well as scientists and organizations. SciStarter's mission includes inspiring people to better understand science and technology.
Citizen Science Network Austria – CSNA (new window) – a network of science, research and education institutions aimed at developing and promoting citizen science in Austria. Sample project topics: health, economy, photography, animals, politics, weather.
Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network – CoCoRaHS (new window) – a community based on a network of volunteers who measure precipitation (rain, hail and snow) and record it on a website. Among other things, the research aims to gather and share knowledge about precipitation with, for example, meteorologists or social utility companies.
Based on:
S. Andrzejewski, Nauka obywatelska jako narzędzie budowania partnerstw i rozwoju gmin i miast w Polsce (nowe okno)
Otwarty kurs e-learningowy na temat nowych modeli komunikacji naukowej dla wszystkich zainteresowanych, red. K. Grodecka, B. Bednarek-Michalska (nowe okno)