Citizen science engagement: Lessons learned from the ClimateWatch “Scientist for a Day” program

Abstract

Limited knowledge exists on participant outcomes relating to citizen science programs. Using the ClimateWatch: Scientist for a Day program as a case study, we sought to understand participant behaviors and attitudes post-program, and evaluated the program’s post-engagement initiatives. Phone interviews were conducted with 15 former participants. While participants enjoyed learning and increasing their environmental knowledge, very few of them engaged in the program’s on-going monitoring activities. Lack of motivation and post-program engagement were cited as key reasons for this outcome. Recommendations are provided to improve participant outcomes, and to assist program evaluation research and the program’s scientific engagement aims.

Notes

1 EarthWatch has recently invested in a new app to improve user engagement through increased functionality and gamification, with improved links to species identification materials.