A question of dialogue? Reflections on how citizen science can enhance communication between science and society

Abstract

Citizen science is a transdisciplinary approach that responds to the current science policy agenda: in terms of supporting open science, and by using a range of science communication instruments. In particular, it opens up scientific research processes by involving citizens at different phases; this also creates a range of opportunities for science communication to happen This article explores methodological and practical characteristics of citizen science as a form of science communication by examining three case studies that took different approaches to citizens' participation in science. Through these, it becomes clear that communication in citizen science is ‘÷always’ science communication and an essential part of “doing science”.

Can Citizen Science in the Humanities and Social Sciences Deliver on the Sustainability Goals?

“…Citizen Science stands in contrast to passive conceptions of science such as 'scientific literacy', since communication here takes place through active exchange and negotiation with the co-researchers in the very heterogeneous sub-publics [52]. By opening up the research process to non-professional researchers, Citizen Science is always also science communication, in which all participants can learn what is otherwise outside their everyday worlds [53]. In the data of this study, the potentials are evident, because the project consortia are very diverse in composition -research institutions, municipalities, civil society, business.…”

Deconstructing citizen science: a framework on communication and interaction using the concept of roles

“…Communication and interaction in CS varies according to the degree of collaboration in any given CS initiative [Wagenknecht et al, 2021]. To better assess the different levels of engagement, Shirk et al [2012] have proposed a framework for CS projects focussing on participants' levels of involvement, which we apply as the basic category to our framework.…”

Co-created citizen science: challenging cultures and practice in scientific research

“…Interpretations and applications of the co-created approach depend on the philosophy and ambitions of those delivering the project. Where partnerships are formed with all partners considered equal stakeholders, approaches such as co-created citizen science have the potential to transform the way scientific knowledge is created and adopted [Wagenknecht et al, 2021]. By providing opportunities for the public to initiate projects, or significantly impact the direction of projects, co-created citizen science can enhance public interests and influence research plans and execution [Ramirez-Andreotta et al, 2015].…”