Introduction

This learning module prepares participants to carry out a Citizen Science project, from developing an idea to actually planning a project. The activities are aimed at researchers who either want to share their work with the public or seek public input, but also at citizens who want to set up their own Citizen Science project.

The sessions focus on sharpening the participants' project idea, recognizing hurdles and preparing personally for carrying out a project with citizen participation, e.g. presenting scientific topics to non-scientists, using simple language and empathizing with the needs of the volunteers. The module also includes practical activities to prepare a project, such as assembling a team, planning time and budget, and making the project visible to the public.

Many of the activities are conducted in a highly visual approach to prepare scientists for easy communication with non-scientists. The outputs, such as posters or other visual materials and collections, will be reused throughout the module. Participants should therefore either keep these materials in a folder and have them handy during the implementation of all activities or, if there is enough space, hang the materials on a wall where they will remain visible while working on the module:

Most activities build on each other and should therefore be carried out in the specified order. The results of activities are often used in other activities. Whenever this is the case, this is indicated in the description of the activity.

All activities are suitable for researchers and citizens in a group or individual learning environment. When learning in a group, take the opportunity to discuss the results in the group if possible. When learning individually, discuss the results with your colleagues or team members in order to exchange ideas and get further input.

Questions for self-reflection

(Note down the results. Repeat the questions at the end of the learning module and evaluate your progress).

How much do you know about the concept of Citizen Science?

1. Nothing
2. I have heard about it.
3. I have taken part in a Citizen Science project as a participant.
4. I have already organized a Citizen Science project.

How clear is your research question?

1. I have a broad topic of interest, but no specific question.
2. I have a question, but I am not sure how to set up a project on this question.
3. I have already done some research and the research question is clear.

How clear is it who the target group is?

1. Unclear (I have no idea who I should do the project with).
2. I have an idea who could take part.
3. I already know who will take part.

How well do you feel prepared for the project?

1. I have no idea how everything will work.
2. I have experience with projects, so that should help.
3. I am well prepared.

How confident do you feel when talking to non-scientists about your research topic?

1. Not at all (either never done it before or it didn't work well).
2. Optimistic (I think it's a positive challenge).
3. Super confident as I've done it before and it worked well.

How well is your team prepared?

1. I don't have a team yet.
2. There are a few people who are interested in joining the team.
3. The team has already been put together.