Driven to Discover: Using citizen science as a springboard into science investigations

Citizen science programs invite the public to participate in scientific research. Through these experiences, participants learn scientific data collection protocols and have opportunities to observe nature, which naturally... [ view full abstract ]

Citizen science programs invite the public to participate in scientific research. Through these experiences, participants learn scientific data collection protocols and have opportunities to observe nature, which naturally leads to asking questions about the natural world. The structured observations that are part of many citizen science projects can thus provide a springboard for full engagement in the process of science. However, participants often lack the skills and experience to conduct research that will address their questions. The Driven to Discover project, funded by the National Science Foundation, is training leaders of youth groups to use citizen science experiences to stimulate curiosity and inspire motivation to design and carry out scientific research projects. We will describe the program model and methods used to foster authentic inquiry in youth age 10-14 outside the traditional school setting, such as 4-H clubs, scout groups, or community youth programs and preliminary evaluation results related to youth and adult knowledge and attitude changes.

While our most successful group leaders combined a strong science background with experience working with youth, leaders who had either a science background or experience with youth were also successful. Training methods were developed to strengthen adult leader science knowledge and skills as well as understanding of critical concepts for effectively working with youth. The Driven to Discover program has thus bridged the scientific and educational goals of citizen science. By designing and carrying out their own projects, youth and adults alike gained a greater understanding and appreciation for science, and see themselves as scientists.