Citizen Science is an emerging topic, especially in today’s climate. What is citizen science? Citizen science can be described as community members of all ages that participate in reporting environmental information to the scientific community regardless of formal training or not. So, in truth, anyone can become involved in local or even national STEM projects, be it a homeschool parent or a retired schoolteacher looking for a worthwhile investigation. There are hundreds of environmental issues to learn about, support through working knowledge, and inform others of their observations. This helps researchers gather more information on a larger scale on topics ranging from entomology to ornithology, to meteorology and geology; there is a scientific interest for everyone.
If you are interested in more information on citizen science and how to get started, check out these two books, “Field Guide to Citizen Science: How You Can Contribute to Scientific Research and Make a Difference” by Darlene Cavalier (507.2 Cav), or “Citizen Science Guide for Families: Taking Part in Real Science” by Greg Landgraf (500 Lan). If you prefer digital media, try an eBook on Hoopla like “Citizen Science: Public Participation in Environmental Research” or Libby’s e-Magazine, “Astronomy for Kids” with hands on Stem project ideas inside. If you like watching instead of reading, investigate “Meteorology Fundamentals” in Universal Class.
There are several good organizations that have citizen science programs, such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Great Backyard Bird Count, or the Monarch Watch for recording butterflies. The SciStarter program has a plethora of STEM activities for curious minds to help address local and global problems. It also includes a project finder to assist you in discovering the perfect project for you. In addition, there are good apps for your mobile device to assist you in citizen science recording. For example, the GLOBE Observer app through NASA has opportunities to provide data on trees, land cover, or clouds.
The programs mentioned above engage community members in data collection, entry, and scientific measurement. With the advancement of technology today, citizen scientists are even more vital in partnering with other scientists around the country. And we can take what we learn from our observations, record them in the field for practical experience, and submit our information into environmental databases for future research and monitoring. Even better, all these apps are free, and the organizations mentioned have websites with a wealth of projects.
Citizen science proves that you do not have to be a scientist to love science.
Stephanie Morrissette is a library assistant in the Reference & Local History Department at the Crawfordsville District Public Library.
