Getting started
Managing a collaboration between citizens and scientists is a challenging and rewarding experience. When it comes to communication, data management and ethics, citizen science projects require a well-considered approach. But this is usually well worth the effort. Citizen science can deliver so much more than helping hands and scientific results; it gives the research a bigger impact, brings science closer to society and, above all, it's fun!
Citizen science has grown exponentially in the past few years. Not just internationally, but in Flanders too. There are vast resources available to help get you started in citizen science. In these pages, we've put together an overview of books, guides, articles and tools, covering several subjects. Are you entirely new to citizen science? Then it's best to start here. Can't find what you are looking for? Don't hesitate to ask!
Getting started with citizen science?
BEFORE
Is citizen science for you?
What is the goal of my project? Which approach is the best fit for my research question? Where do I find reading tips to learn more about citizen science? Can I take part in events in order to learn about citizen science or share experience with other practitioners? Where can I find partner organisations to help with communication development and other aspects of the project? What are the funding options?
DURING
How do I find my target audience? How do I write a communication plan? How do 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? How do I evaluate my project's impact? What tools and platforms exist to gather the citizens' data?
AFTER
What do I do when my project (funding) ends? Can European financing be used to expand my project to an international scale? Can (parts of) the project live on after financing? Where do I store the project data? What tools can I use? What can I do to show the participants my appreciation?