Getting Started
Managing a collaboration between citizens and scientists can be a challenging, yet rewarding experience. Citizen science projects require a well-considered approach to their communication, datamanagement and ethics aspects. This effort is usually more than worth it. Citizen science can deliver so much more than just helping hands and scientific results; the impact of research increases, science grows closer to society and above all... It's fun!
Citizen science has been growing exponentially for the past few years. Internationally, but also in Flanders. There are a large amount of resources available to help you get started in citizen science. We've gathered an overview of books, guides, articles and tools covering several subjects in these pages. Are you entirely new to citizen science? Then it's best to start here. Didn't find what you were looking for? Don't hesitate to ask us!
Getting started with citizen science?
BEFORE
Is citizen science for you?
What's the goal of your project? Which approach fits your research question? Where can I find reading tips to learn more about citizen science? Can I take part in events to learn about citizen science or to exchange experience with other practicioners? Where can I find partner organisations to help with communication development or other aspects of the project? Which options exist for funding?
DURING
How do I find my target audience? How do I write a communication plan? How can I recruit participants and keep them motivated? How do I deal with feedback and project results? How do I gather and store data? How do I implement privacy standards, IP rights, GDPR and ethical standards in my project? How do I evaluate my project's impact? Which tools and platforms can I use to gather data from citizens?
AFTER
What do I do after my project has finished? Can I find European financing to expand my project to an international scale? Can (parts of) the project live on after financing? Where do I store the project's data? Which tools can I use? What can I do to show my appreciation to the participants?