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Arazy O, Kaplan-Mintz K, Malkinson D, Nagar Y. A local community on a global collective intelligence platform: A case study of individual preferences and collective bias in ecological citizen science. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308552. [PMID: 39186522 PMCID: PMC11346665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The collective intelligence of crowds could potentially be harnessed to address global challenges, such as biodiversity loss and species' extinction. For wisdom to emerge from the crowd, certain conditions are required. Importantly, the crowd should be diverse and people's contributions should be independent of one another. Here we investigate a global citizen-science platform-iNaturalist-on which citizens report on wildlife observations, collectively producing maps of species' spatiotemporal distribution. The organization of global platforms such as iNaturalist around local projects compromises the assumption of diversity and independence, and thus raises concerns regarding the quality of such collectively-generated data. We spent four years closely immersing ourselves in a local community of citizen scientists who reported their wildlife sightings on iNaturalist. Our ethnographic study involved the use of questionnaires, interviews, and analysis of archival materials. Our analysis revealed observers' nuanced considerations as they chose where, when, and what type of species to monitor, and which observations to report. Following a thematic analysis of the data, we organized observers' preferences and constraints into four main categories: recordability, community value, personal preferences, and convenience. We show that while some individual partialities can "cancel each other out", others are commonly shared among members of the community, potentially biasing the aggregate database of observations. Our discussion draws attention to the way in which widely-shared individual preferences might manifest as spatial, temporal, and crucially, taxonomic biases in the collectively-created database. We offer avenues for continued research that will help better understand-and tackle-individual preferences, with the goal of attenuating collective bias in data, and facilitating the generation of reliable state-of-nature reports. Finally, we offer insights into the broader literature on biases in collective intelligence systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Arazy
- Department of Information Systems, The University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Keren Kaplan-Mintz
- Department of Learning and Instructional Sciences, The University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Dan Malkinson
- School of Environmental Sciences, The University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yiftach Nagar
- Department of Information Systems, The University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- School of Information Systems, Academic College of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
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2
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Cole NL, Kormann E, Klebel T, Apartis S, Ross-Hellauer T. The societal impact of Open Science: a scoping review. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:240286. [PMID: 39100167 PMCID: PMC11296153 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Open Science (OS) aims, in part, to drive greater societal impact of academic research. Government, funder and institutional policies state that it should further democratize research and increase learning and awareness, evidence-based policy-making, the relevance of research to society's problems, and public trust in research. Yet, measuring the societal impact of OS has proven challenging and synthesized evidence of it is lacking. This study fills this gap by systematically scoping the existing evidence of societal impact driven by OS and its various aspects, including Citizen Science (CS), Open Access (OA), Open/FAIR Data (OFD), Open Code/Software and others. Using the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews and searches conducted in Web of Science, Scopus and relevant grey literature, we identified 196 studies that contain evidence of societal impact. The majority concern CS, with some focused on OA, and only a few addressing other aspects. Key areas of impact found are education and awareness, climate and environment, and social engagement. We found no literature documenting evidence of the societal impact of OFD and limited evidence of societal impact in terms of policy, health, and trust in academic research. Our findings demonstrate a critical need for additional evidence and suggest practical and policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicki Lisa Cole
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Eva Kormann
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Thomas Klebel
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Apartis
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
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3
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Eichholtzer AC, Driscoll DA, Patrick R, Galletta L, Lawson J. The co-benefits of biodiversity citizen science for well-being and nature relatedness. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2024; 16:515-536. [PMID: 37876142 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Human well-being is dependent on the health of our planet. Biodiversity-related citizen science supports conservation research, and there is increasing interest in its potential as a health co-benefits intervention. This randomized controlled study investigates the health co-benefits of biodiversity citizen science participation. Seventy participants were randomly assigned to a citizen science project or control group for an 8-month period. Both groups completed pre- and post-intervention surveys, evaluating nature relatedness, self-efficacy related to biodiversity loss, subjective well-being, and climate change anxiety. A subset (N = 13) of participants engaged in the citizen science project also took part in focus group discussions. The intervention group reported a significant increase in nature relatedness and self-efficacy to help address issues of biodiversity loss. Although no significant changes were observed for other well-being or anxiety scales, most participants reported positive outcomes related to mental or physical well-being in focus groups. There were stronger positive effects for participants without previous environmental volunteering experience. These results suggest that citizen science participation has the potential to contribute to Planetary Health goals, with sustained co-benefits for well-being and nature relatedness. Future interventions evaluating co-benefits should consider previous environmental volunteering experience and focus on participants with little experience to maximize health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Eichholtzer
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Don A Driscoll
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Patrick
- School of Population and Global Health, Melbourne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lorenzo Galletta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Justin Lawson
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
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Ostermann‐Miyashita E, Bluhm H, Dobiáš K, Gandl N, Hibler S, Look S, Michler F, Weltgen L, Smaga A, König HJ, Kuemmerle T, Kiffner C. Opportunities and challenges for monitoring a recolonizing large herbivore using citizen science. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10484. [PMID: 37664516 PMCID: PMC10474824 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Monitoring is a prerequisite for evidence-based wildlife management and conservation planning, yet conventional monitoring approaches are often ineffective for species occurring at low densities. However, some species such as large mammals are often observed by lay people and this information can be leveraged through citizen science monitoring schemes. To ensure that such wildlife monitoring efforts provide robust inferences, assessing the quantity, quality, and potential biases of citizen science data is crucial. For Eurasian moose (Alces alces), a species currently recolonizing north-eastern Germany and occurring in very low numbers, we applied three citizen science tools: a mail/email report system, a smartphone application, and a webpage. Among these monitoring tools, the mail/email report system yielded the greatest number of moose reports in absolute and in standardized (corrected for time effort) terms. The reported moose were predominantly identified as single, adult, male individuals, and reports occurred mostly during late summer. Overlaying citizen science data with independently generated habitat suitability and connectivity maps showed that members of the public detected moose in suitable habitats but not necessarily in movement corridors. Also, moose detections were often recorded near roads, suggestive of spatial bias in the sampling effort. Our results suggest that citizen science-based data collection can be facilitated by brief, intuitive digital reporting systems. However, inference from the resulting data can be limited due to unquantified and possibly biased sampling effort. To overcome these challenges, we offer specific recommendations such as more structured monitoring efforts involving the public in areas likely to be roamed by moose for improving quantity, quality, and analysis of citizen science-based data for making robust inferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emu‐Felicitas Ostermann‐Miyashita
- Faculty of Life SciencesThaer‐Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Humboldt Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
- Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF)MünchebergGermany
| | - Hendrik Bluhm
- Geography DepartmentHumboldt‐Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Kornelia Dobiáš
- Landesbetrieb Forst Brandenburg Abt. 4Landeskompetenzzentrum Forst Eberswalde (LFE)EberswaldeGermany
| | | | - Sophia Hibler
- Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF)MünchebergGermany
| | | | - Frank‐Uwe Michler
- Faculty of Forest and EnvironmentEberswalde University for Sustainable DevelopmentEberswaldeGermany
| | | | - Aleksandra Smaga
- Zachodniopomorskie Towarzystwo PrzyrodniczeDzika ZagrodaMirosławiecPoland
| | - Hannes J. König
- Faculty of Life SciencesThaer‐Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Humboldt Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | | | - Christian Kiffner
- Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF)MünchebergGermany
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5
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Butler G, Ross K, Beaman J, Hoepner C, Baring R, Burke da Silva K. Utilising tourist-generated citizen science data in response to environmental challenges: A systematic literature review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 339:117889. [PMID: 37058928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
There has been a proliferation of studies that have examined the impacts of public participation in Citizen Science (CS) that respond to environmental challenges and the recovery of ecosystems, endangered species or other important natural assets. However, comparatively few studies have explored how tourists may play a critical role in the generation of CS data and thus it has been posited that many potential opportunities remain unrealised. By systematically analysing studies that have utilised tourist-generated data in response to environmental challenges or issues, this paper seeks to establish an appraisal of what has so far been established in extant literature and to identify future possibilities for the inclusion of tourists in CS. Via our literature search, a total of 45 peer-reviewed studies were identified via the PRISMA search protocol. Our findings reveal numerous positive outcomes were reported that highlight the significant, yet largely untapped, potential of tourist integration in CS, with studies also offering a range of recommendations on how tourists could be included more effectively to expand scientific knowledge. Notwithstanding, several limitations were observed, and it is critical that future CS projects that utilise tourists for data collection purposes are acutely aware of the challenges they may encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Butler
- College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia; Faculty of Management, University of Johannesburg, Bunting Road, Cottesloe, Gauteng, 2092, South Africa.
| | - Kirstin Ross
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia.
| | - Julian Beaman
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia.
| | - Cassie Hoepner
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia.
| | - Ryan Baring
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia.
| | - Karen Burke da Silva
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA5042, Australia.
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Greving H, Bruckermann T, Schumann A, Stillfried M, Börner K, Hagen R, Kimmig SE, Brandt M, Kimmerle J. Attitudes Toward Engagement in Citizen Science Increase Self-Related, Ecology-Related, and Motivation-Related Outcomes in an Urban Wildlife Project. Bioscience 2023; 73:206-219. [PMID: 36936382 PMCID: PMC10020826 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Citizen science projects are crucial for engaging citizens in conservation efforts. Although attitudes toward engagement in citizen science were mostly considered an outcome of citizen science participation, citizens may also have a certain attitude toward engagement in citizen science when starting with a citizen science project. Moreover, there is a lack of citizen science studies that consider changes over longer periods of time. Therefore, in this research, we present two-wave data from four field studies of a citizen science project about urban wildlife ecology using cross-lagged panel analyses. We investigated the influence of attitudes toward engagement in citizen science on self-related, ecology-related, and motivation-related outcomes. We found that positive attitudes toward engagement in citizen science at the beginning of the project had positive influences on the participants' psychological ownership and pride in their participation, their attitudes toward and enthusiasm about wildlife, and their internal and external motivation 2 months later. We discuss the implications for citizen science research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Till Bruckermann
- Institute of Education, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Department of Biology Education, IPN–Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anke Schumann
- Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Milena Stillfried
- Department of Ecological Dynamics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Konstantin Börner
- Department of Ecological Dynamics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hagen
- Department of Ecological Dynamics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sophia E Kimmig
- Department of Ecological Dynamics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Miriam Brandt
- Department of Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joachim Kimmerle
- Knowledge Construction Lab, Leibniz-Institut für Wissensmedien, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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7
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von Gönner J, Bowler DE, Gröning J, Klauer AK, Liess M, Neuer L, Bonn A. Citizen science for assessing pesticide impacts in agricultural streams. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159607. [PMID: 36273564 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The majority of central European streams are in poor ecological condition. Pesticide inputs from terrestrial habitats present a key threat to sensitive insects in streams. Both standardized stream monitoring data and societal support are needed to conserve and restore freshwater habitats. Citizen science (CS) offers potential to complement international freshwater monitoring while it is often viewed critically due to concerns about data accuracy. Here, we developed a CS program based on the Water Framework Directive that enables citizen scientists to provide data on stream hydromorphology, physicochemical status and benthic macroinvertebrates to apply the trait-based bio-indicator SPEARpesticides for pesticide exposure. We compared CS monitoring data with professional data across 28 central German stream sites and could show that both CS and professional monitoring identified a similar average proportion of pesticide-sensitive macroinvertebrate taxa per stream site (20 %). CS data were highly correlated to the professional data for both stream hydromorphology and SPEARpesticides (r = 0.72 and 0.76). To assess the extent to which CS macroinvertebrate data can indicate pesticide exposure, we tested the relationship of CS generated SPEARpesticides values and measured pesticide concentrations at 21 stream sites, and found a fair correlation similar to professional results. We conclude that given appropriate training and support, citizen scientists can generate valid data on the ecological status and pesticide contamination of streams. By complementing official monitoring, data from well-managed CS programs can advance freshwater science and enhance the implementation of freshwater conservation goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia von Gönner
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Institute of Biodiversity, Dornburgerstr.159, 07743 Jena, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Diana E Bowler
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Institute of Biodiversity, Dornburgerstr.159, 07743 Jena, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Benson Lane, Wallingford OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Jonas Gröning
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department System-Ecotoxicology, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anna-Katharina Klauer
- Saxony State Foundation for Nature and the Environment (LaNU), Riesaer Str. 7, 01129 Dresden, Germany
| | - Matthias Liess
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department System-Ecotoxicology, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Lilian Neuer
- Friends of the Earth Germany e.V. (BUND), Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee 5, 10553 Berlin, Germany
| | - Aletta Bonn
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Institute of Biodiversity, Dornburgerstr.159, 07743 Jena, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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8
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Khanaposhtani MG, Ballard HL, Lorke J, Miller AE, Pratt-Taweh S, Jennewein J, Robinson LD, Higgins L, Johnson RF, Young AN, Pauly GB, Benavides Lahnstein AI. Examining youth participation in ongoing community and citizen science programs in 3 different out-of-school settings. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION RESEARCH 2022; 28:1730-1754. [PMID: 36217414 PMCID: PMC7613686 DOI: 10.1080/13504622.2022.2078480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We investigated youth participation in three Community and Citizen Science (CCS) programs led by natural history museums in out-of-school settings. Using second generation Activity Theory, we looked at repeated participation over time, collecting and then qualitatively analyzing ethnographic fieldnote observations on focal youth participation and components of the activity systems. We found each program provided multiple and unique access points for youth to participate in environmental science. Further, when facilitators emphasized the scientific goals of the programs clearly and repeatedly, youth participation in the scientific processes of the CCS programs deepened. Access to scientific tools, facilitation in using them, and repeatedly applying them in authentic research, enabled youth to participate in different aspects of CCS, from exploring to submitting biological data. Repeated participation in CCS activities provided the opportunities for youth to try the same type of participation multiple times (intensification), as well as provided the opportunity for youth to try different types of participation (diversification). Our findings suggest that repeated participation in authentic scientific research in CCS contexts fosters youth development of new roles and possible development of environmental science identities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia Lorke
- Natural History Museum, IPN – Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Germany
- Natural History Museum, Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity, London, England
| | | | - Sasha Pratt-Taweh
- Natural History Museum, Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity, London, England
| | - Jessie Jennewein
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Community Science Office and Urban Nature Research Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lucy D. Robinson
- Natural History Museum, Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity, London, England
| | - Lila Higgins
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Community Science Office and Urban Nature Research Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Gregory B. Pauly
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Community Science Office and Urban Nature Research Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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9
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Vance-Chalcraft HD, Jelks NO. Community-engaged learning to broaden the impact of applied ecology: A case study. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2022:e2768. [PMID: 36271610 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ecological changes are creating disruptions that often disproportionately impact communities of color and economically disadvantaged areas. Scientists who study the consequences experienced by these communities are uniquely suited to bring the public into their work as a way of setting conditions that enable impacted residents to empower themselves to advance environmental and community change. In addition to involving community stakeholders in the process of science, community science can be used to motivate learning and increase engagement of students. Here we highlight a case study of one way a historically Black college involved local communities and students in water quality monitoring efforts to examine the role of the environment in human health. Students in an introductory-level environmental toxicology course collaborated with community members to track pollution and monitor conditions in an urban, impaired stream. Students participated in bi-monthly water quality monitoring alongside community watershed researchers and an annual day-long multisite sampling event with community residents and organizations. Through this engagement, students and community members contributed to the collection of data, learned about the significance of their results, and translated findings into strategies to advance watershed restoration, health, quality of life, and environmental justice goals.
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10
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Willis KA, Jones T, Cohen R, Burgess H, Lindsey J, Parrish J. Using long-term citizen science data to distinguish zones of debris accumulation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 182:114028. [PMID: 35964430 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Studies show that a driver of coastal debris is the rate between debris deposition and resuspension; however, the influence of beach zone topography on the distribution of debris remains poorly understood. Using five years of marine debris data collected by the COASST citizen science program, we explored the spatiotemporal trends in debris abundance within two regions of the United States Pacific Northwest and investigated whether higher debris loads are associated with beach zones that have a higher propensity to trap debris. We found that beaches with larger wood zones had higher debris loads, adding to the growing evidence that backshore areas of beaches act as sinks for debris. Higher debris loads were also associated with beaches that had larger wrack zones suggesting that onshore transport from the marine reservoir is a dominant source of debris. This study provides a long-term baseline of marine debris which managers could use to inform source reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A Willis
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS, Australia.
| | - Timothy Jones
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Rachel Cohen
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Hillary Burgess
- Marine Debris Program, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, Seattle, WA, USA; Genwest Systems, Inc., Edmonds, WA, USA
| | - Jackie Lindsey
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Julia Parrish
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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11
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Ostermann‐Miyashita E, König HJ, Pernat N, Bellingrath‐Kimura SD, Hibler S, Kiffner C. Knowledge of returning wildlife species and willingness to participate in citizen science projects among wildlife park visitors in Germany. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emu‐Felicitas Ostermann‐Miyashita
- Junior Research Group Human‐Wildlife Conflict and Coexistence Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Thaer‐Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Humboldt Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Hannes J. König
- Junior Research Group Human‐Wildlife Conflict and Coexistence Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
| | - Nadja Pernat
- Research Area 2: Land Use and Governance Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
- Institute of Landscape Ecology, Animal Ecology Research Group University of Münster Münster Germany
| | - Sonoko Dorothea Bellingrath‐Kimura
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Thaer‐Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Humboldt Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
- Research Area 2: Land Use and Governance Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
| | - Sophia Hibler
- Junior Research Group Human‐Wildlife Conflict and Coexistence Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
- Department of Plant Ecology and Nature Conservation University of Potsdam Potsdam Germany
| | - Christian Kiffner
- Junior Research Group Human‐Wildlife Conflict and Coexistence Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) Müncheberg Germany
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12
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Day G, Fuller RA, Nichols C, Dean AJ. Characteristics of immersive citizen science experiences that drive conservation engagement. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Day
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
| | - Richard A. Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
| | | | - Angela J. Dean
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
- School of Agriculture and Food Science The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
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13
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Citizen science in the community: Gaining insight in community and participant health in four deprived neighbourhoods in the Netherlands. Health Place 2022; 75:102798. [PMID: 35364470 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine if citizen science contributes to gaining insight into community health and to the health of the citizen scientists themselves. Therefore, thirteen citizens in four deprived neighbourhoods were trained as citizen scientists to conduct research in their own communities. Results showed that the citizen scientists identified forty (health related) themes in their communities. The citizen scientists reported an increase in their overall self-perceived health which, however, was not significantly demonstrated in the prequestionnaire and postquestionnaire.
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14
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Vance-Chalcraft HD, Hurlbert AH, Styrsky JN, Gates TA, Bowser G, Hitchcock CB, Reyes MA, Cooper CB. Citizen Science in Postsecondary Education: Current Practices and Knowledge Gaps. Bioscience 2022; 72:276-288. [PMID: 35241973 PMCID: PMC8888125 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biab125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Citizen science involves the public in science to investigate research questions. Although citizen science facilitates learning in informal educational settings, little is known about its use or effects in postsecondary (college or university) settings. Using a literature review and a survey, we describe how and why citizen science is being used in postsecondary courses, as well as the impacts on student learning. We found that citizen science is used predominantly in biologically related fields, at diverse types of institutions, to improve student engagement and expose students to authentic research. Considerable anecdotal evidence supporting improved student learning from these experiences exists, but little empirical evidence exists to warrant any conclusion. Therefore, there is a need to rigorously assess the relationship between citizen science participation and postsecondary student learning. We highlight considerations for instructors planning to incorporate citizen science and for citizen science projects wanting to facilitate postsecondary use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather D Vance-Chalcraft
- East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Allen H Hurlbert
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Jennifer Nesbitt Styrsky
- University of Lynchburg, Lynchburg, Virginia, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Terry A Gates
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Gillian Bowser
- Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Colleen B Hitchcock
- Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Michelle Anne Reyes
- East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
| | - Caren B Cooper
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
- Undergraduate Student Experiences with Citizen Science Research Coordination Network
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Whipple S, Rohlf A, Vasquez CD, Dominquez D, Bowser G, Halliwell P. Combining virtual and in-place field crews to model pollinator species shift in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. ECOL INFORM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2022.101566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Ranney MA, Velautham L. Climate change cognition and education: given no silver bullet for denial, diverse information-hunks increase global warming acceptance. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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17
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O'Brien RSM, Dayer AA, Hopkins WA. Understanding landowner decisions regarding access to private land for conservation research. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley A. Dayer
- Fish and Wildlife Conservation Virginia Tech Blacksburg Virginia USA
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Perelló J, Cigarini A, Vicens J, Bonhoure I, Rojas-Rueda D, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ, Cirach M, Daher C, Targa J, Ripoll A. Large-scale citizen science provides high-resolution nitrogen dioxide values and health impact while enhancing community knowledge and collective action. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147750. [PMID: 34082196 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We present outcomes from a large-scale air quality citizen science campaign (xAire, 725 measurements) to demonstrate its positive contribution in the interplay between advances in exposure assessment and developments in policy or collective action. A broad partnership with 1,650 people from communities around 18 primary schools across Barcelona provided the capacity to obtain unprecedented high-resolution NO2 levels and an updated asthma Health Impact Assessment. It is shown that NO2 levels vary considerably with at some cases very high levels. More than a 1,000 new cases of childhood asthma could be prevented each year by lowering NO2 levels. Representativity of site selection and the minimal number of samplers for land use regression modelling are considered. Enhancement of community knowledge and attitudes towards collective response were observed and identified as key drivers for successful large-scale monitoring campaigns. The results encourage strengthening collaboration with local communities when exploring environmental health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Perelló
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès, 1, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Anna Cigarini
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès, 1, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems, Catalonia, Spain; Internet Interdisciplinary Institute, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Julián Vicens
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès, 1, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Isabelle Bonhoure
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí i Franquès, 1, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems, Catalonia, Spain
| | - David Rojas-Rueda
- Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1601 Campus Delivery, 80523 Fort Collins, USA
| | - Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGLOBAL), Doctor Aiguader, 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Cirach
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGLOBAL), Doctor Aiguader, 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Carolyn Daher
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGLOBAL), Doctor Aiguader, 88, 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jaume Targa
- 4sfera Innova, 17002 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Anna Ripoll
- 4sfera Innova, 17002 Girona, Catalonia, Spain
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Callaghan CT, Poore AGB, Hofmann M, Roberts CJ, Pereira HM. Large-bodied birds are over-represented in unstructured citizen science data. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19073. [PMID: 34561517 PMCID: PMC8463711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98584-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Citizen science platforms are quickly accumulating hundreds of millions of biodiversity observations around the world annually. Quantifying and correcting for the biases in citizen science datasets remains an important first step before these data are used to address ecological questions and monitor biodiversity. One source of potential bias among datasets is the difference between those citizen science programs that have unstructured protocols and those that have semi-structured or structured protocols for submitting observations. To quantify biases in an unstructured citizen science platform, we contrasted bird observations from the unstructured iNaturalist platform with that from a semi-structured citizen science platform-eBird-for the continental United States. We tested whether four traits of species (body size, commonness, flock size, and color) predicted if a species was under- or over-represented in the unstructured dataset compared with the semi-structured dataset. We found strong evidence that large-bodied birds were over-represented in the unstructured citizen science dataset; moderate evidence that common species were over-represented in the unstructured dataset; strong evidence that species in large groups were over-represented; and no evidence that colorful species were over-represented in unstructured citizen science data. Our results suggest that biases exist in unstructured citizen science data when compared with semi-structured data, likely as a result of the detectability of a species and the inherent recording process. Importantly, in programs like iNaturalist the detectability process is two-fold-first, an individual organism needs to be detected, and second, it needs to be photographed, which is likely easier for many large-bodied species. Our results indicate that caution is warranted when using unstructured citizen science data in ecological modelling, and highlight body size as a fundamental trait that can be used as a covariate for modelling opportunistic species occurrence records, representing the detectability or identifiability in unstructured citizen science datasets. Future research in this space should continue to focus on quantifying and documenting biases in citizen science data, and expand our research by including structured citizen science data to understand how biases differ among unstructured, semi-structured, and structured citizen science platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey T Callaghan
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
- Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Institute of Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Alistair G B Poore
- Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Max Hofmann
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christopher J Roberts
- Ecology and Evolution Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Henrique M Pereira
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Am Kirchtor 1, 06108, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Peter M, Diekötter T, Kremer K, Höffler T. Citizen science project characteristics: Connection to participants' gains in knowledge and skills. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253692. [PMID: 34264962 PMCID: PMC8282002 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biodiversity is being lost rapidly and its conservation is thus one of the most urgent tasks today. For biodiversity conservation to be successful, the public needs to gain an awareness and understanding of biodiversity and its importance. Moreover, species experts are needed who have the skills necessary for identifying and recording biodiversity. Previous research showed that citizen science projects can contribute to educating the public about biodiversity. However, it is still unclear how project characteristics connect to participants' knowledge and skills and how citizen science projects should be designed if they are to foster participants' learning. AIM We aimed to investigate specific characteristics of biodiversity citizen science projects that could potentially influence participants' learning. We explored the following project characteristics from both the project coordinators' and the participants' perspectives: information and training provided to participants, social interaction among participants, contact between participants and staff, and feedback and recognition provided to participants. METHODS AND RESULTS In order to examine the extent to which these project characteristics are connected to participants' gains in knowledge and skills, we conducted a comprehensive study across 48 biodiversity citizen science projects in Europe and Australia. We found that participants' perceived gains in knowledge and skills were significantly related to the five project characteristics as reported by the participants: information received by the participants, training received by the participants, social interaction among participants, contact between participants and staff, and feedback and recognition received by the participants. CONCLUSION We conclude that by deliberately designing citizen science projects to include features such as interaction and feedback, these projects could achieve higher learning outcomes for the participants. Thereby, suitable modes of communication between projects and their participants are crucial. We provide specific suggestions for the design of biodiversity citizen science projects and for future research on project characteristics and participant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Peter
- Department of Landscape Ecology, Institute for Natural Resource Conservation, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
- IPN—Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Germany
| | - Tim Diekötter
- Department of Landscape Ecology, Institute for Natural Resource Conservation, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kerstin Kremer
- Biology Education, IDN—Institute for Science Education, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tim Höffler
- IPN—Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education, Kiel, Germany
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21
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A Systematic Literature Review on the Participation Aspects of Environmental and Nature-Based Citizen Science Initiatives. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13137457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
It is commonly argued that, despite the tremendous resonance Citizen Science (CS) has shown in recent years, there is still lack of understanding of important aspects defining citizens’ participation and engagement in CS initiatives. While CS initiatives could provide a vehicle to foster forms of participation contributing to the democratization of science, there is still limited attention paid to the “Citizen” component of the Citizen Science term. For the purpose of this work, we systematically reviewed the available literature for empirical studies in respect to citizens’ participation in environmental and nature-based CS initiatives established during the last two decades, using the PRISMA methodology. The participatory facet of the retrieved 119 CS initiatives was analysed on the basis of: (a) exclusion and inclusion demographic factors, (b) CS models and practices, (c) facilitators and constraints of citizen’s participation, and (d) environmental citizenship. Our findings show that the majority of the CS initiatives did not place restrictions on gender participation; however, we have identified that mostly highly educated adults participated in the reviewed initiatives. In addition, most of the CS initiatives reported in the literature were situated in the EU and USA, were mostly limited to the local scale, and primarily followed the contributory model. Academic institutions were found to coordinate the majority of the CS initiatives examined. By using digital technologies, academic scientists were able to control and increase data quality, as well as to engage a broader audience, even though they were mostly treating volunteers as “data collectors”, desiring their long-term engagement. Therefore, it will be of CS benefit to be better aligned with the mentality and needs of citizens. In this direction CS initiatives should trigger citizens’ learning gains and interpersonal/social benefits and personal, environmental, and social motivations, but also to shift their goals towards contributing to science and citizens’ connection with nature. On the other hand, there is a need to overcome any design and implementation barriers, and to enhance democratization through a more participative engagement of active and aware citizens, thus promoting environmental citizenship.
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22
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Mandeville CP, Finstad AG. Community science supports research on protected area resilience. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin P. Mandeville
- Centre for Biodiversity Dynamics, Department of Natural History Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim Norway
| | - Anders G. Finstad
- Centre for Biodiversity Dynamics, Department of Natural History Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim Norway
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Abstract
Abstract
Few marine taxa have been comprehensively assessed for their conservation status, despite heavy pressures from fishing, habitat degradation and climate change. Here we report on the first global assessment of extinction risk for 300 species of syngnathiform fishes known as of 2017, using the IUCN Red List criteria. This order of bony teleosts is dominated by seahorses, pipefishes and seadragons (family Syngnathidae). It also includes trumpetfishes (Aulostomidae), shrimpfishes (Centriscidae), cornetfishes (Fistulariidae) and ghost pipefishes (Solenostomidae). At least 6% are threatened, but data suggest a mid-point estimate of 7.9% and an upper bound of 38%. Most of the threatened species are seahorses (Hippocampus spp.: 14/42 species, with an additional 17 that are Data Deficient) or freshwater pipefishes of the genus Microphis (2/18 species, with seven additional that are Data Deficient). Two species are Near Threatened. Nearly one-third of syngnathiformes (97 species) are Data Deficient and could potentially be threatened, requiring further field research and evaluation. Most species (61%) were, however, evaluated as Least Concern. Primary threats to syngnathids are (1) overexploitation, primarily by non-selective fisheries, for which most assessments were determined by criterion A (Hippocampus) and/or (2) habitat loss and degradation, for which assessments were determined by criterion B (Microphis and some Hippocampus). Threatened species occurred in most regions but more are found in East and South-east Asia and in South African estuaries. Vital conservation action for syngnathids, including constraining fisheries, particularly non-selective extraction, and habitat protection and rehabilitation, will benefit many other aquatic species.
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Van Haeften S, Milic A, Addison‐Smith B, Butcher C, Davies JM. Grass Gazers: Using citizen science as a tool to facilitate practical and online science learning for secondary school students during the COVID-19 lockdown. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:3488-3500. [PMID: 33362921 PMCID: PMC7753511 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted educational systems worldwide during 2020, including primary and secondary schooling. To enable students of a local secondary school in Brisbane, Queensland, to continue with their practical agricultural science learning and facilitate online learning, a "Grass Gazers" citizen science scoping project was designed and rapidly implemented as a collaboration between the school and a multidisciplinary university research group focused on pollen allergy. Here, we reflect on the process of developing and implementing this project from the perspective of the school and the university. A learning package including modules on pollen identification, tracking grass species, measuring field greenness, using a citizen science data entry platform, forensic palynology, as well as video guides, risk assessment and feedback forms were generated. Junior agriculture science students participated in the learning via online lessons and independent data collection in their own local neighborhood and/or school grounds situated within urban environments. The university research group and school coordinator, operating in their own distributed work environments, had to develop, source, adopt, and/or adapt material rapidly to meet the unique requirements of the project. The experience allowed two-way knowledge exchange between the secondary and tertiary education sectors. Participating students were introduced to real-world research and were able to engage in outdoor learning during a time when online, indoor, desk-based learning dominated their studies. The unique context of restrictions imposed by the social isolation policies, as well as government Public Health and Department of Education directives, allowed the team to respond by adapting teaching and research activity to develop and trial learning modules and citizen science tools. The project provided a focus to motivate and connect teachers, academic staff, and school students during a difficult circumstance. Extension of this citizen project for the purposes of research and secondary school learning has the potential to offer ongoing benefits for grassland ecology data acquisition and student exposure to real-world science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanice Van Haeften
- School of Biomedical ScienceCentre Immunity and Infection Control and Centre for the EnvironmentSchool of Biomedical ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Andelija Milic
- School of Biomedical ScienceCentre Immunity and Infection Control and Centre for the EnvironmentSchool of Biomedical ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Beth Addison‐Smith
- School of Biomedical ScienceCentre Immunity and Infection Control and Centre for the EnvironmentSchool of Biomedical ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Christopher Butcher
- Agricultural Farm and Science Innovation CentreCorinda State High SchoolBrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Janet Mary Davies
- School of Biomedical ScienceCentre Immunity and Infection Control and Centre for the EnvironmentSchool of Biomedical ScienceQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQldAustralia
- Office of ResearchMetro North Hospital and Health ServiceBrisbaneQldAustralia
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Race AI, De Jesus M, Beltran RS, Zavaleta ES. A comparative study between outcomes of an in-person versus online introductory field course. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:3625-3635. [PMID: 33898015 PMCID: PMC8057336 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many standard approaches to STEM education. Particularly impacted were field courses, which rely on specific natural spaces often accessed through shared vehicles. As in-person field courses have been found to be particularly impactful for undergraduate student success in the sciences, we aimed to compare and understand what factors may have been lost or gained during the conversion of an introductory field course to an online format. Using a mixed methods approach comparing data from online and in-person field-course offerings, we found that while community building was lost in the online format, online participants reported increased self-efficacy in research and observation skills and connection to their local space. The online field course additionally provided positive mental health breaks for students who described the time outside as a much-needed respite. We maintain that through intentional design, online field courses can provide participants with similar outcomes to in-person field courses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria De Jesus
- Biological SciencesFlorida State UniversityTallahasseeFLUSA
| | | | - Erika S. Zavaleta
- Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of CaliforniaSanta CruzCAUSA
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Fonseca CR, Paterno GB, Guadagnin DL, Venticinque EM, Overbeck GE, Ganade G, Metzger JP, Kollmann J, Sauer J, Cardoso MZ, Lopes PF, Oliveira RS, Pillar VD, Weisser WW. Conservation biology: four decades of problem- and solution-based research. Perspect Ecol Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Cigarini A, Bonhoure I, Vicens J, Perelló J. Public libraries embrace citizen science: Strengths and challenges. LIBRARY & INFORMATION SCIENCE RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lisr.2021.101090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Bonter DN, Greig EI. Over 30 Years of Standardized Bird Counts at Supplementary Feeding Stations in North America: A Citizen Science Data Report for Project FeederWatch. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.619682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Phillips TB, Bailey RL, Martin V, Faulkner-Grant H, Bonter DN. The role of citizen science in management of invasive avian species: What people think, know, and do. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 280:111709. [PMID: 33298396 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In North America, nest site competition from invasive cavity-nesting birds can limit the opportunities for successful nesting by native birds. Managing invasive species is costly and complex, requiring input from biologists, decision makers, and the public. An informed and engaged public can play an important role in mitigating the negative effects of invasive avian species. However, little is known regarding the publics' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward non-native bird species. We examined the association between participating in a citizen science project and enjoyment, knowledge, and management of two non-native avian species in North America: European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus). We administered a pre and post survey to 947 people who monitor nest boxes in the United States and Canada, 30% of whom were also reporting their observations to NestWatch, a citizen science project focused on nesting birds. We found that NestWatch participants were more likely to have negative views of non-native species, score higher on bird identification tasks, and manage for invasive species than non-participants. The most important predictor for undertaking management activities was respondents' perceptions of whether they believed non-native birds to be a problem at the continental scale, underscoring the important role of individual factors such as perception. Our study also highlights the important role citizen science may play in shaping attitudes and behaviors and increasing knowledge. We propose a conceptual model describing the mechanisms by which citizen science can be leveraged for management of invasive species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vicki Martin
- Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Kam W, Haklay M, Lorke J. Exploring factors associated with participation in citizen science among UK museum visitors aged 40-60: A qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework and the capability opportunity motivation-behaviour model. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2021; 30:212-228. [PMID: 33158395 DOI: 10.1177/0963662520963511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Citizen science has grown as a form of public engagement in science. Middle-aged citizens who are already consuming scientific information should be a potential outreach group. Behaviour change research in citizen science participation among the demographic is lacking. A total of 47 museum visitors aged 40-60 years took part in qualitative questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis with the aid of theoretical domains framework and capability opportunity motivation-behaviour model revealed eight themes: (1) limited awareness of citizen science; (2) curiosity, competence and other significant characteristics and skills; (3) important beliefs about one's capability; (4) importance of clear project purpose and impacts; (5) interest, enjoyment and incentives; (6) lasting impacts of family upbringing; (7) project details that make participation easy, better project promotion; and (8) the living environment, availability of free time and money. Addressing a maximum number of these factors with behaviour change techniques can improve the likelihood of citizen science participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia Lorke
- Natural History Museum, UK; Wissenschaft im Dialog, Berlin, Germany
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Howe K, Bernal LM, Brewer FK, Millikan D, Jarvi S. A Hawaii public education programme for rat lungworm disease prevention. Parasitology 2021; 148:206-211. [PMID: 32800015 PMCID: PMC11010196 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Education is essential for lowering cases of Angiostrongyliasis in Hawaii. A professional development course on rat lungworm disease (RLWD) prevention was offered to Hawaii K-12 teachers during the 2018-2019 school year. Fourteen teachers, 11 from Hawaii Island and three from Maui, representing grades K, 2, 6-8, and 10-12, completed workshops and activities and received course credit. Teachers reached 652 students and educated 86 teachers and staff and approximately 900 community members including parents. A pre-course survey showed 55% of teachers agreed to a basic understanding of rat lungworm and its impact on Hawaii; this increased to 100% post-course. A sixth-grade class was the first to document the arrival of a highly competent intermediate host of the rat lungworm in a new location, an important discovery that initiated community awareness and control efforts. Six, 1-day workshops were held in 2018-2019, each on one of the main Hawaiian Islands. These were attended by 106 participants including teachers, community educators, and interested individuals from agencies, non-profits, businesses and the private sector. Of participants surveyed, 100% responded the workshop improved their overall understanding of RLWD. Efforts are being made to continue these programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Howe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii, Hilo. 200 W Kawili St., Hilo, HI 96720, USA
| | - Lydi Morgan Bernal
- Hawaii Farm to School Hui, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | | | | | - Susan Jarvi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii, Hilo. 200 W Kawili St., Hilo, HI 96720, USA
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Santori C, Keith RJ, Whittington CM, Thompson MB, Van Dyke JU, Spencer R. Changes in participant behaviour and attitudes are associated with knowledge and skills gained by using a turtle conservation citizen science app. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Santori
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Ryan J. Keith
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Camilla M. Whittington
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - Michael B. Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Camperdown NSW Australia
| | - James U. Van Dyke
- School of Molecular Sciences La Trobe University Wodonga VIC Australia
| | - Ricky‐John Spencer
- School of Science Hawkesbury Institute for the EnvironmentWestern Sydney University Richmond NSW Australia
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Groulx M, Winegardner A, Brisbois MC, Fishback LA, Linde R, Levy K, Booth A. Place and transformative learning in climate change focused community science. Facets (Ott) 2021. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Community science involves the co-creation of scientific pursuits, learning, and outcomes and is presented as a transformative practice for community engagement and environmental governance. Emphasizing critical reflection, this study adopts Mezirow’s conception of transformative learning to theorize the transformative capacity of community science. Findings from interviews with participants in a community science program reveal critical reflection, although instances acknowledging attitudes and beliefs without challenging personal assumptions were more common. Program elements most likely to prompt participants to identify beliefs, values, and assumptions include data collection and interaction in team dynamics, whereas data collection in a novel environment was most likely to prompt participants to challenge their beliefs, values, and assumptions. A review of 71 climate change focused programs further demonstrates the extent that program designs support transformative learning. Key features of the community science landscape like the broad inclusion of stated learning objectives offer a constructive starting point for deepening transformative capacity, while the dominance of contributory program designs stands as a likely roadblock. Overall, this study contributes by applying a developed field to theorize transformation in relation to community science and by highlighting where facilitators should focus program design efforts to better promote transformation toward environmental sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Groulx
- School of Planning and Sustainability, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Amanda Winegardner
- Churchill Northern Studies Centre, P.O. Box 610, Churchill, MB R0B 0E0, Canada
| | - Marie Claire Brisbois
- Science Policy Research Unit, Business School, University of Sussex, Jubilee Building, Falmer Brighton, BN1 9SL, United Kingdom
| | - Lee Ann Fishback
- Churchill Northern Studies Centre, P.O. Box 610, Churchill, MB R0B 0E0, Canada
| | - Rachelle Linde
- Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Kristin Levy
- School of Planning and Sustainability, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Annie Booth
- School of Planning and Sustainability, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
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35
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Haywood BK, Parrish JK, He Y. Shapeshifting attachment: Exploring multi‐dimensional people–place bonds in place‐based citizen science. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yurong He
- The University of Washington Seattle WA USA
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36
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Asingizwe D, Poortvliet PM, van Vliet AJH, Koenraadt CJM, Ingabire CM, Mutesa L, Leeuwis C. What do people benefit from a citizen science programme? Evidence from a Rwandan citizen science programme on malaria control. Malar J 2020; 19:283. [PMID: 32762756 PMCID: PMC7409712 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria control remains a challenge globally and in malaria-endemic countries in particular. In Rwanda, a citizen science programme has been set up to improve malaria control. Citizens are involved in collecting mosquito species and reporting mosquito nuisance. This study assessed what people benefit from such a citizen science programme. The analysis was conducted on how the citizen science programme influenced perceptions and behaviour related to malaria control. Methods This study employed a mixed-methods approach using dissemination workshops, a survey, and village meetings as the main data collection methods. Dissemination workshops and village meetings involved 112 volunteers of the citizen science programme and were conducted to explore: (1) the benefits of being involved in the programme and (2) different ways used to share malaria-related information to non-volunteers. The survey involved 328 people (110 volunteers and 218 non-volunteers) and was used to compare differences in malaria-related perceptions and behaviour over time (between 2017 and 2019), as well as between volunteers and non-volunteers. Results Malaria-related perceptions and behaviour changed significantly over time (between 2017 and 2019) and became favourable to malaria control. When the findings were compared between volunteers and non-volunteers, for perceptions, only perceived self-efficacy showed a significant difference between these two groups. However, volunteers showed significantly more social interaction, participation in malaria-related activities at the community level, and indoor residual spraying (IRS) acceptance. In addition, both volunteers and non-volunteers reported to have gained knowledge and skills about the use of malaria control measures in general, and mosquito species in particular among volunteers. Conclusion The reported knowledge and skills gained among non-volunteers indicate a diffusion of the citizen science programme-related information in the community. Thus, the citizen science programme has the potential to provide individual and collective benefits to volunteers and society at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domina Asingizwe
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda. .,Strategic Communication Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - P Marijn Poortvliet
- Strategic Communication Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnold J H van Vliet
- Environmental Systems Analysis Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Chantal M Ingabire
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Leon Mutesa
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Cees Leeuwis
- Knowledge, Technology and Innovation Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Morales N, Bisbee O’Connell K, McNulty S, Berkowitz A, Bowser G, Giamellaro M, Miriti MN. Promoting inclusion in ecological field experiences: Examining and overcoming barriers to a professional rite of passage. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/bes2.1742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nia Morales
- School of Forest Resources and Conservation University of Florida 136 Newis‐Ziegler Hall Gainesville Florida32611USA
| | - Kari Bisbee O’Connell
- Oregon State UniversitySTEM Research Center 254 Gilbert Hall Corvallis Oregon97331USA
| | - Stacy McNulty
- SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Adirondack Ecological Center 6312 NY‐28N Newcomb New York12852USA
| | - Alan Berkowitz
- Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies 2801 Sharon Turnpike; P.O. Box AB Millbrook New York12545‐0129USA
| | - Gillian Bowser
- Colorado State UniversityEcosystem Science and Sustainability 1499 Campus Delivery Fort Collins Colorado80523‐1499USA
| | - Michael Giamellaro
- Oregon State UniversityCascades Graduate & Research Center 650 SW Columbia St. Bend Oregon97702USA
| | - Maria N. Miriti
- Ohio State University 382 Aronoff Laboratory 318 W. 12th Avenue Columbus Ohio43210USA
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Adler FR, Green AM, Şekercioğlu ÇH. Citizen science in ecology: a place for humans in nature. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1469:52-64. [PMID: 32216157 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
By involving the public, citizen science runs against the grain of an idealized science that leaves out the human element, and thus provides new opportunities for ecological research and society. We classify the goals of citizen science in ecology and environment into four broad categories: (1) scientific, (2) participant benefits, (3) community, and (4) policy. Although none of these goals have been well studied, we review the literature showing that these projects are most effective in tracking ecological trends over large swaths of space and time, and discuss the challenges of recruiting, training, retaining, and educating participants, maintaining and disseminating high-quality data, and connecting with the larger community and policy. Biomedical studies, where patients participate in their own treatment in randomized trials, provide an interesting comparison with citizen science in ecology, sharing challenges in recruitment and involvement of nonscientists and ethical conduct of research. Future study will help address the ethical difficulties and enhance ways for citizen science in ecology and the environment to complement scientific discovery, involve and educate the public, and guide policy founded in science and the local community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick R Adler
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Austin M Green
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Çağan H Şekercioğlu
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Green SE, Rees JP, Stephens PA, Hill RA, Giordano AJ. Innovations in Camera Trapping Technology and Approaches: The Integration of Citizen Science and Artificial Intelligence. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10010132. [PMID: 31947586 PMCID: PMC7023201 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Camera traps, also known as “game cameras” or “trail cameras”, have increasingly been used in wildlife research over the last 20 years. Although early units were bulky and the set-up was complicated, modern camera traps are compact, integrated units able to collect vast digital datasets. Some of the challenges now facing researchers include the time required to view, classify, and sort all of the footage collected, as well as the logistics of establishing and maintaining camera trap sampling arrays across wide geographic areas. One solution to this problem is to enlist or recruit the public for help as ‘citizen scientists’ collecting and processing data. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also being used to identify animals in digital photos and video; however, this process is relatively new, and machine-based classifications are not yet fully reliable. By combining citizen science with AI, it should be possible to improve efficiency and increase classification accuracy, while simultaneously maintaining and promoting the benefits associated with public engagement with, and awareness of, wildlife. Abstract Camera trapping has become an increasingly reliable and mainstream tool for surveying a diversity of wildlife species. Concurrent with this has been an increasing effort to involve the wider public in the research process, in an approach known as ‘citizen science’. To date, millions of people have contributed to research across a wide variety of disciplines as a result. Although their value for public engagement was recognised early on, camera traps were initially ill-suited for citizen science. As camera trap technology has evolved, cameras have become more user-friendly and the enormous quantities of data they now collect has led researchers to seek assistance in classifying footage. This has now made camera trap research a prime candidate for citizen science, as reflected by the large number of camera trap projects now integrating public participation. Researchers are also turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist with classification of footage. Although this rapidly-advancing field is already proving a useful tool, accuracy is variable and AI does not provide the social and engagement benefits associated with citizen science approaches. We propose, as a solution, more efforts to combine citizen science with AI to improve classification accuracy and efficiency while maintaining public involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siân E. Green
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
- Conservation Ecology Group, Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK; (J.P.R.); (P.A.S.)
- The Society for Preservation of Endangered Carnivores and Their International Ecological Study (SPECIES), Ventura, CA 93006, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jonathan P. Rees
- Conservation Ecology Group, Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK; (J.P.R.); (P.A.S.)
| | - Philip A. Stephens
- Conservation Ecology Group, Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK; (J.P.R.); (P.A.S.)
| | - Russell A. Hill
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK;
| | - Anthony J. Giordano
- The Society for Preservation of Endangered Carnivores and Their International Ecological Study (SPECIES), Ventura, CA 93006, USA;
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Roche J, Bell L, Galvão C, Golumbic YN, Kloetzer L, Knoben N, Laakso M, Lorke J, Mannion G, Massetti L, Mauchline A, Pata K, Ruck A, Taraba P, Winter S. Citizen Science, Education, and Learning: Challenges and Opportunities. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2020; 5:613814. [PMID: 33869532 PMCID: PMC8022735 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2020.613814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Citizen science is a growing field of research and practice, generating new knowledge and understanding through the collaboration of citizens in scientific research. As the field expands, it is becoming increasingly important to consider its potential to foster education and learning opportunities. Although progress has been made to support learning in citizen science projects, as well as to facilitate citizen science in formal and informal learning environments, challenges still arise. This paper identifies a number of dilemmas facing the field-from competing scientific goals and learning outcomes, differing underlying ontologies and epistemologies, diverging communication strategies, to clashing values around advocacy and activism. Although such challenges can become barriers to the successful integration of citizen science into mainstream education systems, they also serve as signposts for possible synergies and opportunities. One of the key emerging recommendations is to align educational learning outcomes with citizen science project goals at the planning stage of the project using co-creation approaches to ensure issues of accessibility and inclusivity are paramount throughout the design and implementation of every project. Only then can citizen science realise its true potential to empower citizens to take ownership of their own science education and learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Roche
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- *Correspondence: Joseph Roche
| | | | | | | | | | - Nieke Knoben
- Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mari Laakso
- Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Julia Lorke
- Wissenschaft im Dialog, Bürger Schaffen Wissen, Berlin, Germany
| | - Greg Mannion
- University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Luciano Massetti
- Institute of Bioeconomy, Italian National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Kai Pata
- Tallinn University, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Andy Ruck
- University of the Highlands and Islands, Perth, United Kingdom
| | | | - Silvia Winter
- Vienna University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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Egerer M, Lin BB, Kendal D. Towards better species identification processes between scientists and community participants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 694:133738. [PMID: 31400691 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Urban gardens are a model system for understanding the intersection between biodiversity conservation and citizen science. They contain high plant diversity that contributes to urban flora. However, this diversity is challenging to document due to site access and complex plant taxonomy with hybrids and cultivars. Community research participation provides a tool to measure plant diversity and distribution by engaging gardeners who are most familiar with their plants to report on their garden's species richness using citizen science. Yet there is little empirical exploration of plant identification consistency between citizen scientists and scientific researchers. This could lead to reporting differences (e.g., missing species, multiple reporting of the same species) due to spatial and temporal effects, different perspectives and knowledge systems, and cultural context. We leverage a scientific survey of garden plants and a questionnaire asking gardeners to report on the species in their gardens to perform an opportunistic comparison of gardener and researcher reported plant diversity in community gardens. The comparison shows that gardeners interpret instructions to report plants quite variably, with some reporting all species (including herbaceous weeds) and crop varieties, while others reporting only their main crop species. Scientist on the other hand seek clarity in terms of species and variety and report all species located in the plot, including the small weed species that are overlooked by some gardeners. Consistency could be improved if researchers are more specific about their reporting expectations when asking community members to participate in data collection. We use this case study to communicate that paired citizen scientist-researcher data collection and dialogue between groups is necessary to improve methods for conducting consistent and collaborative assessments of biological diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Egerer
- Environmental Studies Department, University of California - Santa Cruz, 1156 High St., Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, 7001, TAS, Australia; Department of Ecology, Ecosystem Science/Plant Ecology, Technische Universität Berlin, Rothenburgstr. 12, 12165 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Brenda B Lin
- CSIRO Land and Water Flagship, 107-121 Station St., Aspendale, 3195, VIC, Australia
| | - Dave Kendal
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, 7001, TAS, Australia; School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne, 500 Yarra Boulevard, Richmond, 3121, VIC, Australia
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Cooper O, Keeley A, Merenlender A. Curriculum gaps for adult climate literacy. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adina Merenlender
- Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, UC Berkeley Berkeley California
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The Mental Health Benefits of Purposeful Activities in Public Green Spaces in Urban and Semi-Urban Neighbourhoods: A Mixed-Methods Pilot and Proof of Concept Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16152712. [PMID: 31366020 PMCID: PMC6696054 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Access and exposure to public green space might be critical to health promotion and prevention of mental ill health. However, it is uncertain if differential health and mental health benefits are associated with undertaking different activities in public green space. We evaluated the health and wellbeing benefits of different activities in different locations of public green spaces in urban and semi-urban areas. We used a mixed-methods before-and-after design. Volunteers at three conservation sites were recruited and took part in group guided walks, practical conservation tasks or citizen science. Repeated measures one-way ANOVAs with Bonferroni correction assessed the relationship between location and activity type on change in acute subjective mood from pre- to post-activity, measured with the UWIST Mood Adjective Checklist (UWIST-MACL). Qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken and analysed thematically to explore participants’ perceptions about the health and wellbeing benefits of activities in public green space. Forty-five participants were recruited, leading to 65 independent observations. Walking, conservation and citizen science in public green space were associated with improved mood. Across all participants acute subjective mood improved across all domains of the UWIST-MACL. There was a significant association between reduction in stress and location (p = 0.009). Qualitatively participants reported that conservation and citizen science conferred co-benefits to the environment and individual health and well-being and were perceived as purposeful. Undertaking purposeful activity in public green space has the potential to promote health and prevent mental ill health.
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Participant Outcomes of Biodiversity Citizen Science Projects: A Systematic Literature Review. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11102780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Citizen science is becoming increasingly popular as a format in environmental and sustainability education. Citizen science not only allows researchers to gather large amounts of biodiversity-related data, it also has the potential to engage the public in biodiversity research. Numerous citizen science projects have emerged that assume that participation in the project affects participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. We investigated what evidence really exists about the outcomes of biodiversity citizen science projects on the side of the individual participants. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed research articles published up to and including 2017. We found evidence for various individual participant outcomes. The outcome reported most often was a gain in knowledge. Other outcomes, found in several articles, referred to changes in behavior or attitudes. Outcomes reported less often were new skills, increased self-efficacy and interest, and a variety of other personal outcomes. We discuss the research design and methods used in the reviewed studies und formulate specific recommendations for future research. We conclude that citizen science is a promising option for environmental and sustainability education focusing on biodiversity. Partnerships between natural and social scientists in the design and evaluation of projects would allow future biodiversity citizen science projects to utilize their full educational potential.
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Hoping for optimality or designing for inclusion: Persistence, learning, and the social network of citizen science. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:1894-1901. [PMID: 30718390 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1807186115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The explosive growth in citizen science combined with a recalcitrance on the part of mainstream science to fully embrace this data collection technique demands a rigorous examination of the factors influencing data quality and project efficacy. Patterns of contributor effort and task performance have been well reviewed in online projects; however, studies of hands-on citizen science are lacking. We used a single hands-on, out-of-doors project-the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST)-to quantitatively explore the relationships among participant effort, task performance, and social connectedness as a function of the demographic characteristics and interests of participants, placing these results in the context of a meta-analysis of 54 citizen science projects. Although online projects were typified by high (>90%) rates of one-off participation and low retention (<10%) past 1 y, regular COASST participants were highly likely to continue past their first survey (86%), with 54% active 1 y later. Project-wide, task performance was high (88% correct species identifications over the 31,450 carcasses and 163 species found). However, there were distinct demographic differences. Age, birding expertise, and previous citizen science experience had the greatest impact on participant persistence and performance, albeit occasionally in opposite directions. Gender and sociality were relatively inconsequential, although highly gregarious social types, i.e., "nexus people," were extremely influential at recruiting others. Our findings suggest that hands-on citizen science can produce high-quality data especially if participants persist, and that understanding the demographic data of participation could be used to maximize data quality and breadth of participation across the larger societal landscape.
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Schuttler SG, Sears RS, Orendain I, Khot R, Rubenstein D, Rubenstein N, Dunn RR, Baird E, Kandros K, O'Brien T, Kays R. Citizen Science in Schools: Students Collect Valuable Mammal Data for Science, Conservation, and Community Engagement. Bioscience 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biy141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca S Sears
- Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University, in Raleigh
| | - Isabel Orendain
- Museo de Paleontologia de Guadalajara, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Rahul Khot
- Bombay Natural History Society, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | | | - Robert R Dunn
- Department of Applied Ecology at North Carolina State University, in Raleigh and with the Center for Macroecology, Evolution, and Climate, in the Natural History Museum of Denmark, at the University of Copenhagen
| | | | - Kimberly Kandros
- North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, in Raleigh
| | | | - Roland Kays
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University, both in Raleigh, and with the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, in Washington, DC
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Parrish JK, Burgess H, Weltzin JF, Fortson L, Wiggins A, Simmons B. Exposing the Science in Citizen Science: Fitness to Purpose and Intentional Design. Integr Comp Biol 2018; 58:150-160. [PMID: 29790942 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icy032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Citizen science is a growing phenomenon. With millions of people involved and billions of in-kind dollars contributed annually, this broad extent, fine grain approach to data collection should be garnering enthusiastic support in the mainstream science and higher education communities. However, many academic researchers demonstrate distinct biases against the use of citizen science as a source of rigorous information. To engage the public in scientific research, and the research community in the practice of citizen science, a mutual understanding is needed of accepted quality standards in science, and the corresponding specifics of project design and implementation when working with a broad public base. We define a science-based typology focused on the degree to which projects deliver the type(s) and quality of data/work needed to produce valid scientific outcomes directly useful in science and natural resource management. Where project intent includes direct contribution to science and the public is actively involved either virtually or hands-on, we examine the measures of quality assurance (methods to increase data quality during the design and implementation phases of a project) and quality control (post hoc methods to increase the quality of scientific outcomes). We suggest that high quality science can be produced with massive, largely one-off, participation if data collection is simple and quality control includes algorithm voting, statistical pruning, and/or computational modeling. Small to mid-scale projects engaging participants in repeated, often complex, sampling can advance quality through expert-led training and well-designed materials, and through independent verification. Both approaches-simplification at scale and complexity with care-generate more robust science outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Parrish
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, Box 355020, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Hillary Burgess
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, Box 355020, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jake F Weltzin
- U.S. Geological Survey, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20192, USA
| | - Lucy Fortson
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Andrea Wiggins
- University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6001 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68182, USA
| | - Brooke Simmons
- University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Capoccia S, Boyle C, Darnell T. Loved or loathed, feral pigeons as subjects in ecological and social research. JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/juy024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stella Capoccia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Montana Tech of the University of Montana, 1300 W. Park Street, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Callie Boyle
- Department of Biological Sciences, Montana Tech of the University of Montana, 1300 W. Park Street, Butte, MT, USA
| | - Tedd Darnell
- Department of Biology, University of North Dakota, 10 Cornell Street Stop 9019, Grand Forks, ND, USA
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Schick A, Sandig C, Krause A, Hobson PR, Porembski S, Ibisch PL. People-Centered and Ecosystem-Based Knowledge Co-Production to Promote Proactive Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development in Namibia. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2018; 62:858-876. [PMID: 30120499 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-018-1093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Growing levels of uncertainty and vulnerability generated by land use conversion and climate change set demands on local communities and national institutions to build synergies between the diverse array of knowledge systems in order to provide policy makers and practitioners with the best available information to decide what urgent actions must be taken. Science policy arenas and agreements such as the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) recognize the importance of different types of knowledge and the need for broad stakeholder involvement, yet the use of indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) in environmental decision-making processes is still underdeveloped. This study involved working with local stakeholders, using the MARISCO method (adaptive MAnagement of vulnerability and RISks at COnservation sites) to carry out a systematic situation analysis of the existing socioenvironmental conditions. The assessments were conducted in the Kavango East Region in northern Namibia with the participation of inhabitants of the Khaudum North Complex, a protected area network covering wooded savannahs belonging to the Northern Kalahari sandveld. General outcomes of the assessments and evaluations made by the local stakeholders concerning the most critical drivers of degradation of the ecosystems appeared to support existing scientific knowledge of the study area, demonstrating that community-based assessments can provide valuable information about socioecological systems where scientific data are scarce. The findings of this study also highlight the importance of power dynamics for the implementation of participatory processes and the interpretation of their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Schick
- Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management, Faculty of Forest and Environment, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Alfred-Moeller-Str.1, 16225, Eberswalde, Germany.
| | - Christina Sandig
- Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management, Faculty of Forest and Environment, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Alfred-Moeller-Str.1, 16225, Eberswalde, Germany
| | - Anja Krause
- Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management, Faculty of Forest and Environment, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Alfred-Moeller-Str.1, 16225, Eberswalde, Germany
| | - Peter R Hobson
- Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management, Writtle School of Sustainable Environments, Chelmsford Essex, CM1 3RR, UK
| | - Stefan Porembski
- Institut für Biowissenschaften, Allgemeine und Spezielle Botanik, Botanischer Garten, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Rostock, Wismarsche Str. 8, 18051, Rostock, Germany
| | - Pierre L Ibisch
- Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management, Faculty of Forest and Environment, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Alfred-Moeller-Str.1, 16225, Eberswalde, Germany
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Roetman P, Tindle H, Litchfield C. Management of Pet Cats: The Impact of the Cat Tracker Citizen Science Project in South Australia. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8110190. [PMID: 30355981 PMCID: PMC6262432 DOI: 10.3390/ani8110190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Domestic cats are popular pets worldwide and play an important role in the lives of many of their owners; however, there is growing awareness of the potential negative impacts of cats. The Cat Tracker citizen science project was conducted in South Australia to better understand domestic cats, their movement, and related community views. The project was deliberately designed to engage cat owners and assist them to make informed decisions about the management of their pet cats. The project collected data through an online social survey and tracking of pet cats, using small GPS units. This study evaluates the project and examines its impact on participant knowledge, attitude, and behaviour. We found that participation in the tracking activity had positive learning outcomes for cat owners and that, after participating, many cat owners placed an increased level of importance on containing cats. Participants reported that they changed their behaviour with existing pet cats and reported intentions to change behaviour with future pet cats. We discuss positive impacts on other members of the community, and how negative impacts may be avoided. We advocate for further research in this area to understand how projects can drive positive changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. Abstract Domestic cats (Felis catus) are popular pets worldwide and play an important role in the lives of many of their owners; however, there is growing awareness of the potential negative impacts of cats. Accordingly, there is increasing interest in pet cat management, including changing the attitudes and behaviours of cat owners. The Cat Tracker citizen science project was conducted in South Australia to better understand domestic cats, their movement, and related community views. The project was deliberately designed to engage cat owners and assist them to make informed decisions about the management of their pet cats. The project collected data through an online social survey (n = 3192) and GPS tracking of pet cats (n = 428), conducted between February 2015 and September 2016. A public report was published in February 2017 and an evaluation survey (n = 410) was conducted between March and May 2017. This study evaluates the project and examines its impact on participant knowledge, attitude, and behaviour. We found that participation in the tracking activity had a statistically significant influence on participant-reported learning. For participant cat owners, we recorded statistically significant increases in the level of importance placed on containing cats (both during the day and at night). Participants reported that they changed their behaviour with existing pet cats and reported intentions to change behaviour with future pet cats. We discuss impacts beyond what we set out to measure, including impacts on project onlookers, profound impacts on participants, and how the rebound effect (which can generate negative impacts) may be avoided. We describe social science applied to citizen science and advocate for further research in this area to understand how projects can drive positive changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Roetman
- School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Hayley Tindle
- School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Carla Litchfield
- Conservation Psychology and Applied Animal Behaviour Centre, School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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