Citizen Science Learning and Epistemology in Socio-Ecologically Oriented Projects

It is clear that citizen science programs result in a vast array of ecological and social outcomes. Positive outcomes recently reported in the literature include advancing conservation goals and increasing socio-ecological... [ view full abstract ]

It is clear that citizen science programs result in a vast array of ecological and social outcomes. Positive outcomes recently reported in the literature include advancing conservation goals and increasing socio-ecological stewardship. In this talk, I will discuss learning gains and the development of epistemic practices (i.e., knowledge about the knowledge produced in citizen science) in the context of socio-ecological outcomes. Using data from two citizen science programs (MosquitoStoppers and CollaborativeScience.org) it is clear that citizen science has the potential to increase socio-ecological resilience. The latter is supported by evidence that the act of participation in data gathering in socio-ecologically framed citizen science projects can: (1) Increase individual efficacy to drive community outcomes and that this increase in perceived efficacy need not be paired with actual efficacy; (2) Help to build trust among members of similar or different communities that share goals; (3) Enable necessary communication between the public and decision-makers; and (4) Through the act of modeling, promote an increase in scientifically related epistemic practices. To develop and support such projects, however, certain issues warrant further consideration. First, projects need to be highly coordinated especially during early phases. Second, if participants are going to contribute to the decision-making process, they need to be broadly versed in the scientific enterprise. Third, project designers and participants need to consider issue framing as a means to engender support. I will conclude with a discussion about project assessment based on decision-making success.