Citizen Science
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We've released a book on
Operation Possum. It includes:
To find out more, or to buy the book, click here |
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See "Bring us your Bugs" in 2009
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See Operation Possum from 2008
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See Operation Bluetongue from 2007
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Click here for
a poster on
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Scientists work to understand the complexities of the natural world. This endeavour often requires a great deal of data collection, but time and resource availability limit the data collection that scientists can do. One solution to this problem is to have more people collecting data, and this is where Citizen Scientists can assist. Members of the community can help further our understanding of the natural world by collecting data and submitting their findings.
| “Citizen Science is a research methodology where professional researchers engage the public to collect data within a cooperative framework of research and education” |
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Citizen Science is more than just data collection. In order for a research project to work properly, Citizen Scientists need adequate information about what they are studying and how to study it. So scientists must produce information for the community, to inform them about the project and the subject of the study. Additionally, scientists must provide feedback to participants once the results of the study are finalised, in order to maintain the engagement of the Citizen Scientists.
There are many benefits of Citizen Science. Community members get a chance to inform scientists, and, in the process, learn more about their environment. Further, information gained through Citizen Science projects can change public perceptions of the natural world, promote interaction with nature, and engage the community in the management of natural resources. Scientists benefit from data collection over a large area, or over a long period of time. Data can also be collected from areas that are normally difficult to access, such as private property, or at times when fieldwork is sometimes challenging, such as at night-time.
The Barbara Hardy Centre has run a number of Citizen Science projects in conjunction with 891 ABC Adelaide:
- In 2007, Operation Bluetongue looked at the distribution of 5 lizard species in South Australia and how people engage with them.
- In 2008, Operation Possum looked at Possum populations across South Australia, how people interact with them, and how problems with possums are managed.
- In 2009, the Bring us your Bugs events are helping gather information about the invertebrates of Adelaide.
- In 2009 we are running a new state-wide project: Operation Magpie.
For more information about any of our Citizen Science projects, please contact Philip Roetman.