Citizen Science – Engaging Communities in Research and Action
What is Citizen Science?
Citizen Science is an approach that actively involves non-researchers in scientific research. It is a method where researchers involve co-creation with the public or non-researchers in some way during the research process. It empowers individuals to contribute to data collection, analysis, and knowledge creation, fostering a deeper connection between science and society. By breaking down barriers between academia and communities, Citizen Science aims to empower ordinary citizens to become active participants in scientific research.
Citizen science involves the public, i.e. people who are not researchers, helping researchers to investigate certain questions. The most common way is by helping researchers collect and/or review large amounts of data, on a scale that would be impossible for researchers to achieve on their own. This may involve, for example, reporting observations of plants or animals, transcribing old letters or classifying images of galaxies. Citizen science can also involve collaboratively formulating research questions, testing methods, and compiling or communicating findings.
Why Does Citizen Science Matter?
Traditional scientific research often remains within universities and laboratories. Citizen Science, however, invites non-experts to collaborate with scientists. It can enable large-scale data collection that would otherwise be impossible.
There are several advantages to citizen science. Perhaps the most obvious is that citizen science helps researchers to speed up scientific progress. In addition, citizen science can be a way of engaging people who would not otherwise come into contact with research. Citizens gain better knowledge of what research entails and how it is conducted, something that over time can increase their confidence in science, build relationships and create dialogue between researchers and society.
Citizen Science and EPICS
Within the EPICS framework, Citizen Science plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research and civic engagement. By involving schools, local communities, and non-profits, EPICS promotes:
Data- and science-driven decision-making: Communities contribute to and benefit from research relevant to their local needs. Hopefully, they will also develop scientific literacy and critical thinking.
Active learning experiences: Students develop scientific literacy and critical thinking skills while engaging with real-world problems. Understand the role of research in everyday life and in society.
Collaboration between universities and local organisations: Strengthening the Knowledge-Based Society by integrating diverse perspectives. This brings research closer to society and might come to use faster.
The Future of Citizen Science
To maximise its democratic potential, Citizen Science must ensure inclusivity, transparency, and ethical considerations. Questions such as Who decides research topics? and How do these projects impact policy? are central to making Citizen Science a true instrument of social change.
EPICS leverages Citizen Science to create impactful research partnerships, ensuring that science remains accessible, relevant, and transformative for all.