Citizen or community science, as part of the broader open science movement, involves public participation and collaboration in scientific research with the aim of advancing scientific knowledge and transparency. Individuals, regardless of their scientific background, can contribute to various stages of the research process, including data collection, analysis, and reporting. This approach not only enhances the research capacity by engaging a broader audience but also fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of science within the community. By involving the public, citizen science projects can address large-scale and local issues more effectively, promote environmental stewardship, and influence policy decisions. Open science principles ensure that the data and findings from these projects are freely accessible and reusable, further promoting collaboration and innovation.
Open Science
Center for Open Science:
The Center for Open Science (COS) was founded in 2013 to promote and sustain open research practices, democratizing access to research and enhancing transparency and rigor. COS supports the self-corrective process of science by expanding the sharing of all research content and improving research integrity.
Open Science Framework:
The Open Science Framework (OSF) is a free, open platform that allows researchers to discover projects, data, materials, and collaborators. OSF supports transparency, collaboration, and the sharing of research outputs.
UNESCO Toolkit:
The UNESCO Open Science Toolkit is designed to support the implementation of the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science. It provides guidelines and resources to help researchers adopt open science practices, enhancing accessibility and collaboration.
FOSTER:
The FOSTER portal is an e-learning platform that brings together the best training resources for learning about Open Science. It helps researchers develop strategies and skills to implement open science practices in their daily workflows.
MIT OpenCourseWare:
Since 2001, MIT OpenCourseWare has been creating new opportunities for millions of learners and educators by sharing Open Educational Resources (OER) from MIT. It supports the global revolution in free access to knowledge, including a wealth of STEM material.
Community (Citizen) Science
CitizenScience.gov:
The US Citizen Science intiative aims to nurture collaboration between the federal government and the public to advance inclusive participation in scientific discovery and research. The website includes a catalog of projects, toolkits, and other resources.
Association for Advancing Participatory Sciences:
A member-driven organization that connects people from diverse backgrounds to advance knowledge through research and monitoring conducted by, for, and with the public.
SciStarter:
A globally acclaimed online citizen science hub where thousands of projects, searchable by location, topic, and age level, are registered by individual project leaders or through partnerships with governments, NGOs, and universities.
Zooniverse:
The world’s largest and most popular platform for people-powered research. It allows volunteers to contribute to real scientific research across various disciplines.
Public Lab:
A community and non-profit organization that democratizes science to address environmental issues affecting people. It is a go-to place for finding and sharing knowledge, equipment, and community efforts.
NISE:
The National Informal STEM Education Network brings people together to engage in STEM, understand our world, and build a better future for everyone.
Local Citizen Science Projects:
Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center:
At the Discovery Center, visitors can take part in important research to support global marine conservation efforts. The center offers citizen science opportunities to contribute to marine science
FWC Citizen Science Opportunities
Citizen science is a collaborative strategy that enhances the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s ability to conserve the state's diverse fish and wildlife species and their habitats