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August: Citizen Science 101

Activity Type

60-Minute Workshop

Topic

Citizen Science Basics

Audience

13+

Location

Indoors

Set up

A/V Equipment

Audience need

Smartphone or Tablet

Program Description

In this hands-on introductory workshop, participants explore the basics of citizen science and learn how everyday observations can contribute to real scientific research. Led by library staff or facilitators, the session introduces simple, accessible ways to get involved in projects related to nature, the environment, space, and health.

Participants learn what citizen science is, why it matters, and how to get involved using free projects and tools from SciStarter. Together, they’ll explore real projects, practice common types of data collection, and try a citizen science activity they can continue at home or in their community.

No prior experience is needed—just curiosity. Participants will leave with the confidence and resources to continue contributing to real scientific research.

Program Resources

These resources can be used for in-person or virtual presentations and are ideal for libraries and classrooms. For in-person sessions, you’ll need a computer connected to a projector or large display with audio to play the embedded videos.

Facilitator Tip: You can also complete the Foundations of Citizen Science Training together as a group by projecting the online training instead of using the slide deck.

Event Recipe Card – A short slide deck that walks through a potential event flow from beginning to end.
Foundations of Citizen Science Slide Deck – A professionally designed slide deck based on the Foundations of Citizen Science training. Customize it with your own examples and activities using the accompanying facilitator guide.
Citizen Science Talking Points – A quick reference to help facilitators answer common questions about citizen science.
Printable Participation Certificate – Recognize participants’ completion of the workshop with a printable certificate.
Example Title and Description – Adapt this sample event title and description for your own library program.

What is Citizen Science?

This short video, featured in the official Foundations of Citizen Science training and the accompanying slide deck, introduces the audience to the idea of citizen science in a succinct way.

How to present “Citizen Science 101”

In this recording, Emma and Darlene demonstrate what it is like to present the Foundations of Citizen Science or “Citizen Science 101” to a mock audience.