What is Citizen Science

Citizen science is a term used for projects or ongoing program of scientific work in which individual volunteers or networks of volunteers, many of whom may have no specific scientific training, perform or manage research-related tasks such as observation, measurement or computation. The use of citizen-science networks often allows scientists to accomplish research objectives more feasibly than would otherwise be possible. In addition, these projects aim to promote public engagement with the research, as well as with science in general. Some programs provide materials specifically for use by primary or secondary school students. As such, citizen science is one approach to informal science education. The longest-running citizen science project currently active is probably the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count, which started in 1900.

a movement in Open Science which looks to the lay citizen as a participant in research practices or as the lead in research activity

Scientific activities in which citizens and non-professional scientists voluntarily participate in data collection.

Scientific research conducted, in whole or in part, by nonprofessional scientists.

The work of individuals or teams of amateur, non-professional, or volunteer scientists who conduct research, gather and analyze data, perform pattern recognition, and develop technology, often in support of professional scientists.

Scientific research managed, in part or as a whole, by nonprofessional scientists and/or citizens. Citizens help scientific research by public participation, collection and analysis of data, research and monitoring actions which frequently offer advancements in improving public understanding of science and increasing awareness to the community.

Collection of scientific data by the public to aid in scholarly research.