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The Field Guide to Citizen Science: How You Can Contribute to Scientific Research and Make a Difference
Citizen science is the public involvement in the discovery of new scientific knowledge. A citizen science project can involve one person or millions of people collaborating towards a common goal. The citizen science movement is approachable and inclusive, making it an excellent option for people looking for ways to get involved and make a difference.
The Field Guide to Citizen Science—by the expert team at SciStarter—makes it easier than ever for those new to the process to get involved. It explains what citizen science is, explores the various types of projects available, shows how to succeed and stay motivated when you’re participating in a project, and explains how the data are used. The included projects range from passive observation to active data collection. With an upbeat and accessible tone and a lively, illustrated layout, this must-have guide is for anyone looking to join the fun and rewarding world of citizen science.
The Field Guide to Citizen Science—by the expert team at SciStarter—makes it easier than ever for those new to the process to get involved. It explains what citizen science is, explores the various types of projects available, shows how to succeed and stay motivated when you’re participating in a project, and explains how the data are used. The included projects range from passive observation to active data collection. With an upbeat and accessible tone and a lively, illustrated layout, this must-have guide is for anyone looking to join the fun and rewarding world of citizen science.
188 pages, Paperback
Published February 4, 2020
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471 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 4, 2022
SciStarter is a website that connects everyday people with numerous projects that contribute to scientific research, and The Field Guide to Citizen Science is a collection of fifty that primarily concern nature (including projects focused on water), astronomy, and disease. The strength of this well-organized and clearly explained guidebook is in its variety. There are simple projects such as searching for and identifying mushrooms; more involved ones such as transcribing handwritten documents and specimen labels for the Smithsonian; and weird projects such as counting the number of roadkill one sees while driving and trying to identify what each is. I appreciated the range in both level of involvement and tasks themselves and am currently participating in two: one to identify patterns in lymph nodes and one on childhood uveitis. The projects are easy to understand and complete, even fun.
Each project has a few steps that usually require basic supplies such as a camera or notebook. A smartphone is pretty much a must as many projects require participants to download specific apps. At least one asks participants to download a specific screen saver for desktop or laptop. For others, participants need to register on the site, as I did for the two projects I’m doing. The book contains projects suitable for children and adults, although children will likely require help from an adult, at least in setting up. In a smart touch, the authors conclude with “A Year of Citizen Science,” which helpfully slots projects (page numbers included) that are most relevant to each month (e.g., “Bumble Bee Watch” in June; “Flu Near You” in November).
Of course, those interested in “citizen science” could just forgo this book and go directly to SciStarter.org, but I like its layout and how easy it is to simply flip to bookmarked pages. Sometimes that’s more convenient than visiting a web site, and this would be a good book to actually own.
July 10, 2020
The coolest thing about the idea of citizen science is that you don't need a fancy degree or PhD in order to provide value to the overall contribution of science. With many of the major scientific discoveries these days relating to the natural world around us there is no reason to go much farther than your own backyard (no matter where in the world you live) in order to help contribute to worldwide scientific findings.
The Field Guide to Citizen Science is beautifully put together. With consistent page layouts and short, easy to understand instructions (along with reasons why the research proposed is important) this daypack sized soft cover book is a lovely gift or addition to any child's library. Using a green and yellow duotone colour scheme it feels more like you are reading a children's textbook than instructions on important, worldwide research.
Additionally at the back is a calendar suggesting which activities to review for each time of the year. It appears to be based on the North American seasonal timeline. This would help a teacher, parent or caretaker find appropriate activities for kids without reading the entire book.
As someone who has helped contribute to Zooniverse, the Gutenburg project, and more; I'm a large advocate of getting kids and adults involved in 'casual science'. Otherwise known as hobby science. Your average telescope buff or astronomer is a hobby scientist. They have the ability to make important breakthroughs; although it's far more likely you will contribute to a larger breakthrough by one of those PhD folks.
A great manual to realize the power of working together in science, and that sharing knowledge is always the best for humankind.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
The Field Guide to Citizen Science is beautifully put together. With consistent page layouts and short, easy to understand instructions (along with reasons why the research proposed is important) this daypack sized soft cover book is a lovely gift or addition to any child's library. Using a green and yellow duotone colour scheme it feels more like you are reading a children's textbook than instructions on important, worldwide research.
Additionally at the back is a calendar suggesting which activities to review for each time of the year. It appears to be based on the North American seasonal timeline. This would help a teacher, parent or caretaker find appropriate activities for kids without reading the entire book.
As someone who has helped contribute to Zooniverse, the Gutenburg project, and more; I'm a large advocate of getting kids and adults involved in 'casual science'. Otherwise known as hobby science. Your average telescope buff or astronomer is a hobby scientist. They have the ability to make important breakthroughs; although it's far more likely you will contribute to a larger breakthrough by one of those PhD folks.
A great manual to realize the power of working together in science, and that sharing knowledge is always the best for humankind.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
March 26, 2020
This is a (mostly) easy to read, interesting and informative guide to loading your phone or computer with citizen science apps and carrying out research, then sharing the results.
Maybe this means recording the birds or squirrels you see. Maybe you'll choose to photograph the plastic you find washed up on the beach and upload the photos. You might choose something more esoteric at your desk, like folding shapes to work out possible ways viruses fold proteins. Or identifying plaque in the cells of Alzheimer's patients.
Some of these apps are already on my phone and we're encouraged to sign in to a dashboard so we can collect points and badges, and contribute to a growing community of volunteers. This looks like a great way to spend the summer with kids, and a teacher gives her point of view of a ladybird project in the classroom. College students were asked to record the different species of ants in New York and found an astonishing number, including some which had not been named. Having an eager troop of volunteers who send in sightings and counts makes an invaluable contribution to science.
The book explains which ideas will cost you money for a test kit and which are free, provided you have a smartphone. The book is also a fun read and will encourage those with no science background to get started. The only downside is that most of the apps are American and some do not apply to other nations. However, some like Cornell's E-Bird are globally available.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
Maybe this means recording the birds or squirrels you see. Maybe you'll choose to photograph the plastic you find washed up on the beach and upload the photos. You might choose something more esoteric at your desk, like folding shapes to work out possible ways viruses fold proteins. Or identifying plaque in the cells of Alzheimer's patients.
Some of these apps are already on my phone and we're encouraged to sign in to a dashboard so we can collect points and badges, and contribute to a growing community of volunteers. This looks like a great way to spend the summer with kids, and a teacher gives her point of view of a ladybird project in the classroom. College students were asked to record the different species of ants in New York and found an astonishing number, including some which had not been named. Having an eager troop of volunteers who send in sightings and counts makes an invaluable contribution to science.
The book explains which ideas will cost you money for a test kit and which are free, provided you have a smartphone. The book is also a fun read and will encourage those with no science background to get started. The only downside is that most of the apps are American and some do not apply to other nations. However, some like Cornell's E-Bird are globally available.
I downloaded an e-ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
January 13, 2025
We can make a difference! Guide to finding and participating in a citizen science project (mostly via SciStarter and iNaturalist but also gives mentions programs at specific institutions). Some really cool projects going on that I connect to and feel excited about. We can make a difference!
February 8, 2020
I stumbled upon the SciStarter website quite some time ago but only recently acquired this book. My children and I have thoroughly enjoyed going through this book and picking out citizen science projects to do in our homeschool. We've done others just because they were fun (providing a profile of our dog's personality). There is such a variety of projects to choose from, and the amount of prep work and time to actually do the project varies as well. We've really enjoyed being able to learn something at the same time as helping others. This is definitely a book that is perfect for all ages.
December 7, 2020
An excellent source for anyone who works with children, for adults interested in science, for homeschoolers, for scouts, and so on.
Here are some key links to get you started:
1. The Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science Act was passed in 2016. The bill can be found online. Here is an official government website that talks about it:
https://www.citizenscience.gov/about/#
2. Here is a link for Project Budburst.
http://budburst.org/
Here is their opening statement:
"Budburst brings together researchers, educators, gardeners, and citizen scientists on a shared journey to uncover the stories of plants and animals affected by human impacts on the environment. We hope that sharing these stories will increase appreciation of plants and the natural world and inspire conservation action."
3. Here is Budburst's effort to help monarch butterflies:
http://budburst.org/projects/milkweed...
4. And here is a link for Nature's Notebook:
https://www.usanpn.org/natures_notebook
Here are some key links to get you started:
1. The Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science Act was passed in 2016. The bill can be found online. Here is an official government website that talks about it:
https://www.citizenscience.gov/about/#
2. Here is a link for Project Budburst.
http://budburst.org/
Here is their opening statement:
"Budburst brings together researchers, educators, gardeners, and citizen scientists on a shared journey to uncover the stories of plants and animals affected by human impacts on the environment. We hope that sharing these stories will increase appreciation of plants and the natural world and inspire conservation action."
3. Here is Budburst's effort to help monarch butterflies:
http://budburst.org/projects/milkweed...
4. And here is a link for Nature's Notebook:
https://www.usanpn.org/natures_notebook
January 19, 2020
Surprisingly actionable. I expected (and received) a book with some history and examples of citizen science, everyday citizens contributing data to a variety of scientific studies.
I was impressed by the list of studies currently available to contribute to. From identifying birds and counting bees to sending in soil samples for analysis, the Guide lists options organized by geography and expectations. It also gives sources of more studies you may want to add to.
Looking forward to going through this book with my kids this summer and choosing a study to help with.
**I received a free copy of this eBook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I was impressed by the list of studies currently available to contribute to. From identifying birds and counting bees to sending in soil samples for analysis, the Guide lists options organized by geography and expectations. It also gives sources of more studies you may want to add to.
Looking forward to going through this book with my kids this summer and choosing a study to help with.
**I received a free copy of this eBook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 27, 2020
This book serves as a great primer for ordinary people to gather extraordinary data for scientific use. It presents greats ideas and lists many more which ordinary people, including both young and old can contribute to and become a part of something greater than themselves.
Definitely recommended for school teachers, librarians and parents (and everyone else as well).
Definitely recommended for school teachers, librarians and parents (and everyone else as well).
February 11, 2020
This is a great book for finding your next citizen science volunteer project. You will find many opportunities that are sorted by location (online, at home, near water, etc.) and by month. Great for teachers, scout leaders, master naturalists, parents and anyone who wants to contribute to scientific research.
December 23, 2019
This is a super cool book. It talks about what citizen science is, how to get involved in a citizen science project, and suggestions of interesting projects with a wide variety of topics and time commitments. This book inspire me to sign up on scistarter.org and join the Stall Catchers project. It's a super interesting introduction to citizen science, that doesn't take long to read.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2020
Citizen science is becoming way more popular. There are so many places where we can volunteer our time and share our observations with scientists these days. Many of these projects can be done online, which increases the reach and scope of the project. This book tells the reader about how to get involved in some of these projects.
The book is written by the founders of the SciStarter web site. This web site is a place where many of the projects are registered. A citizen scientist can register with the web site, then browse for projects that they are interested in participating in. It makes it much easier and you only have to remember the one login.
The book is broken down into sections. Some of the projects are for particular locations, some are online, some are one-time-only, etc. So, the reader can make choices about which ones they prefer to contribute to. If you don’t know what citizen science is, you can read about it on the web site, or in the book. The book does a great job explaining the basics for anyone who is interested in learning more. And, you don’t have to sign up on the web site. It’s just one option. If you prefer to participate in a project on your own, you can do it through the contact information provided for that project. So, there are a variety of choices as well as projects. They cover a wide array of interests and skill levels.
Each chapter of the book provides details about a particular project. The reader can find out what the scientists are looking for, how to make their observations, how to contribute, and more. The tools needed are also listed, if there are any. I found the accounts very detailed and interesting. There are some sections in the book that give background information as well.
I thought the book was well-organized. It covered the subject quite well and allowed the reader to decide if participation in citizen science is right for them or not. It provides a resource where one can look for projects. It also provides an in-depth look into this fast-growing activity.
Scientists can’t be everywhere. They can only make observations from one place at a time. By allowing everyday people to contribute to research, they are opening up science to all. It’s an experience that anyone can now participate in. Sometimes, you may not even have to leave your home to contribute! How cool is that?
I think this book would be a valuable library resource, and should be in school libraries to encourage students to participate actively in science during their everyday activities. They might grow up to be future scientists!
The book is written by the founders of the SciStarter web site. This web site is a place where many of the projects are registered. A citizen scientist can register with the web site, then browse for projects that they are interested in participating in. It makes it much easier and you only have to remember the one login.
The book is broken down into sections. Some of the projects are for particular locations, some are online, some are one-time-only, etc. So, the reader can make choices about which ones they prefer to contribute to. If you don’t know what citizen science is, you can read about it on the web site, or in the book. The book does a great job explaining the basics for anyone who is interested in learning more. And, you don’t have to sign up on the web site. It’s just one option. If you prefer to participate in a project on your own, you can do it through the contact information provided for that project. So, there are a variety of choices as well as projects. They cover a wide array of interests and skill levels.
Each chapter of the book provides details about a particular project. The reader can find out what the scientists are looking for, how to make their observations, how to contribute, and more. The tools needed are also listed, if there are any. I found the accounts very detailed and interesting. There are some sections in the book that give background information as well.
I thought the book was well-organized. It covered the subject quite well and allowed the reader to decide if participation in citizen science is right for them or not. It provides a resource where one can look for projects. It also provides an in-depth look into this fast-growing activity.
Scientists can’t be everywhere. They can only make observations from one place at a time. By allowing everyday people to contribute to research, they are opening up science to all. It’s an experience that anyone can now participate in. Sometimes, you may not even have to leave your home to contribute! How cool is that?
I think this book would be a valuable library resource, and should be in school libraries to encourage students to participate actively in science during their everyday activities. They might grow up to be future scientists!
February 1, 2020
I loved this book so much that I just ordered a copy for my dad. I had never even heard of “citizen science” until I saw a friend’s review of this book; but as soon as I understood the concept, I knew I needed participate and get my hands on this book ASAP! (Big thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for granting me access to the digital ARC). The basic concept is that any willing citizen can help crowdsource data for use in professional scientific research. You don’t need to be college educated or hold any special skills; you just need to be motivated to help. No matter your interests, hobbies, geographic location, or lifestyle, there is probably a project out there that would be a good fit for you. Love long walks on the beach? While you walk count pieces of litter or snap photos of clouds or wildlife to help scientists track trends over time. Prefer the indoors and love history? Help transcribe old war diaries or hand-written letters by people like Shakespeare or Charles Darwin. Or play “video game” simulations to help scientists understand how certain diseases develop. Pregnant and obsessed with everything baby? Join a baby-focused project tracking things like development milestones, sleep patterns, or diaper changes. Want something to do with your kids at home? Collect soil samples, set traps for nocturnal bugs, count ants, or test how different conditions affect the flavor of sour dough bread. Want to *be* the subject? Complete tests for sociological and cognition studies, or report your flu symptoms so that researchers can track clusters of the illness. You get the idea. This concept allows everyday people to be a part of something bigger than them. It bridges the gap between “expert” and “layman.” On a serious note, as someone who is trying to recover from emotional trauma, these projects feel like a way to add meaning to my life, which is exactly what I need right now.
January 30, 2020
I never heard about Citizen Science before and I was fascinated by this book because I learnt so much.
It was an engrossing and informative read, I enjoyed it and I think it should be read by anyone interested in science.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It was an engrossing and informative read, I enjoyed it and I think it should be read by anyone interested in science.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
March 16, 2020
This book is absolutely wonderful. Clearly written, well laid out, attractively designed. I didn’t know much of anything about citizen science before I started, but I feel like I’m quite comfortably caught up on the basics and theory now. I’d recommend this for anyone at all who has the slightest interest in at-home participation. Good for parents, retired, working single people, absolutely everyone will have something for them in here.
January 19, 2020
In the age of STEAM, this highly readable title by the SciStarter team of Cavalier, Hoffman, and Coope, has information for anyone who aspires to be a citizen scientist! I had never really thought about it, but a lot of scientists had other professions, and their science discoveries came from their observation during their free time. The authors provide clear advice on how to find programs, how to proceed, how to record and share. There is something for everyone, from the adult who wants to work from home, the hobbyist, schools and teachers, scouts, and library programs.
February 11, 2020
“There will always be more unknown than known, more rocks waiting to be overturned.” To be a part-time scientist, you only need a cell phone and the Field Guide to Citizen Science.
SciStarter.org is an online database of more than 1,600 science projects that need help from regular people just like you. But where to start? The dashboard will suggest projects based on your location and interests.
However, if you want a quick start, read the Field Guide to Citizen Science. Projects selected for their popularity, longevity, and diversity are listed within the book in chapters highlighting where they are done (online, at home or in nature). Playing an online game may help cure Alzheimer’s or make you a coauthor of a scientific paper. Each project has a page or two listing the location, website, goal, task, outcomes, and why the authors selected this project.
If you are interested in science, or want to encourage your child to be interested in it, this book is an easy way to see the great variety of citizen science projects that are available. It only takes a minute to sign up. I know because I already became part of the Stall Catchers project that helps find a cure for Alzheimer’s. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars!
Thanks to Timber Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
SciStarter.org is an online database of more than 1,600 science projects that need help from regular people just like you. But where to start? The dashboard will suggest projects based on your location and interests.
However, if you want a quick start, read the Field Guide to Citizen Science. Projects selected for their popularity, longevity, and diversity are listed within the book in chapters highlighting where they are done (online, at home or in nature). Playing an online game may help cure Alzheimer’s or make you a coauthor of a scientific paper. Each project has a page or two listing the location, website, goal, task, outcomes, and why the authors selected this project.
If you are interested in science, or want to encourage your child to be interested in it, this book is an easy way to see the great variety of citizen science projects that are available. It only takes a minute to sign up. I know because I already became part of the Stall Catchers project that helps find a cure for Alzheimer’s. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars!
Thanks to Timber Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 21, 2019
Okay, who took part in SETIhome? Raise your hand... I did for a couple of years and it's in here. I have way too many reading obligations (ARCs and borrowed) but this popped up and I... let myself be sidetracked with this advance review copy received from the publisher from NetGalley, due out in February 2020. Fortunately, it is a very fast read. It comes off targeted to youth/young adults, but Mses. (I know Messrs. is the plural of Mr., but had to look up the plural of Ms.) Cavalier, Hoffman, and Cooper talk early on of "[e]xposing your children to citizen science..."
The authors give “fifty-plus” programs to participate in and they range from things seemingly obvious like bird/animal watching/observing to mushrooms, monarch butterfly migrations, or trash on beaches, Alzheimer’s observations and selfies at streams to help map all of the streams, even reporting infrequent events like landslides. They tell the reader how to find the project, what’s required (simple as a clipboard or a computer, perhaps needing special software or specific collecting materials), how broad the scope is (localized or global), the goal, task, outcome and their opinion why they like the project.
Most importantly, the authors affirm the value of citizen science. You don’t need scientific credentials. You do need to “review all of the instructions, training modules, and information” before beginning. And for it to work...you need to participate. Rightly, the authors advise that the project needs to fit you as much as you fit it. You may not have the time, resources or maybe passion to commit, and we all know sifting bad data is a necessary burden, but responsible limiting of bad data is so, so welcome.
Cringe when reading it moment: An MIT project called DeepMoji is designed to teach Artificial Intelligence systems about emotions, but requires a ... [cringe again as I type this}...Twitter account. Oh, MIT, Twitter? Really? Sifting the sludge, I guess, has some value.
Really cool eye opener when reading it moment: One project (Foldit) has teams solving folding puzzles to help predict protein structures (and gathering data on pattern recognition and general puzzle solving to teach computers how to solve better), used in genetics and drug targeting. The eye-opener./..teams that successfully solve protein folding puzzles become coauthors on the scientific papers!
Five stars for being a novel book on something extremely important, particularly as the US slips backwards on the science front. Check out SciStarter for more information and opportunities.
The authors give “fifty-plus” programs to participate in and they range from things seemingly obvious like bird/animal watching/observing to mushrooms, monarch butterfly migrations, or trash on beaches, Alzheimer’s observations and selfies at streams to help map all of the streams, even reporting infrequent events like landslides. They tell the reader how to find the project, what’s required (simple as a clipboard or a computer, perhaps needing special software or specific collecting materials), how broad the scope is (localized or global), the goal, task, outcome and their opinion why they like the project.
Most importantly, the authors affirm the value of citizen science. You don’t need scientific credentials. You do need to “review all of the instructions, training modules, and information” before beginning. And for it to work...you need to participate. Rightly, the authors advise that the project needs to fit you as much as you fit it. You may not have the time, resources or maybe passion to commit, and we all know sifting bad data is a necessary burden, but responsible limiting of bad data is so, so welcome.
Cringe when reading it moment: An MIT project called DeepMoji is designed to teach Artificial Intelligence systems about emotions, but requires a ... [cringe again as I type this}...Twitter account. Oh, MIT, Twitter? Really? Sifting the sludge, I guess, has some value.
Really cool eye opener when reading it moment: One project (Foldit) has teams solving folding puzzles to help predict protein structures (and gathering data on pattern recognition and general puzzle solving to teach computers how to solve better), used in genetics and drug targeting. The eye-opener./..teams that successfully solve protein folding puzzles become coauthors on the scientific papers!
Five stars for being a novel book on something extremely important, particularly as the US slips backwards on the science front. Check out SciStarter for more information and opportunities.
February 17, 2020
What a great resource to have for families. We homeschool as well as do girl scouts and this book would be a great addition. I loved the layout and the comprehensive list of all the projects you can do. Highly recommend.
February 1, 2020
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was short, but it was a great introduction into citizen science. I've always loved science and wanted to do more, but was unsure how because I don't have a degree in science.. As I was reading this book, I made notes of some of the projects and joined the scistarter website so that I could start getting in on projects immediately. There's so many to choose from and they cover all sorts of categories of science, so there is something that everyone will enjoy. I highly recommend this for anyone who's like me and wants to do more with science but is unsure where to start, or who wants to find more to do with science.
This book was short, but it was a great introduction into citizen science. I've always loved science and wanted to do more, but was unsure how because I don't have a degree in science.. As I was reading this book, I made notes of some of the projects and joined the scistarter website so that I could start getting in on projects immediately. There's so many to choose from and they cover all sorts of categories of science, so there is something that everyone will enjoy. I highly recommend this for anyone who's like me and wants to do more with science but is unsure where to start, or who wants to find more to do with science.
Read
February 13, 2020An excellent guide to finding and participating in data collection projects. I have a SciStarter and iNaturalist account and learned some additional tips about both.
September 26, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and Timber Press for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Developed by the awesome team at SciStarter, The Field Guide to Citizen Science introduces the reader to the world of "public involvement in the discovery of new scientific knowledge." Basically, with this accessible, positive, and aesthetically pleasing know-how-to book, there is no reason for you not to get involved.
Beginning with a detailed overview of the history and importance of citizen science, the book discusses the various projects the average non-scientist can contribute their natural talents, skills, and interests to, whether it involves general data collection, photography of nature in one's local surroundings, or the completion of online surveys from the comfort of your home. They even provide ideas for projects you sign up for easily. (I completed the C-BARQ and F-BARQ questionnaire for my dog after creating an account on SciStarter.)
I plan on sifting through more of the projects outlined in the book and also purchase it when it officially comes out. I feel "citizen science" was something that should have been brought up more in school and I particularly hope this book reaches the hands of younger people with the drive and energy to change the future.
Developed by the awesome team at SciStarter, The Field Guide to Citizen Science introduces the reader to the world of "public involvement in the discovery of new scientific knowledge." Basically, with this accessible, positive, and aesthetically pleasing know-how-to book, there is no reason for you not to get involved.
Beginning with a detailed overview of the history and importance of citizen science, the book discusses the various projects the average non-scientist can contribute their natural talents, skills, and interests to, whether it involves general data collection, photography of nature in one's local surroundings, or the completion of online surveys from the comfort of your home. They even provide ideas for projects you sign up for easily. (I completed the C-BARQ and F-BARQ questionnaire for my dog after creating an account on SciStarter.)
I plan on sifting through more of the projects outlined in the book and also purchase it when it officially comes out. I feel "citizen science" was something that should have been brought up more in school and I particularly hope this book reaches the hands of younger people with the drive and energy to change the future.
September 4, 2019
This book is a perfect introduction to the world of citizen science. It starts with an in-depth discussion of the history and value of citizen science, suitable for both adults and older children who are new to the subject.
After providing the proper background, the book delves into a host of citizen science projects anyone can participate in, and it guides the reader through getting started with projects in SciStarter. The projects range from nature projects that require data collection in backyards, lakes, and beaches to online projects citizen scientists can get involved in without leaving the house. I identified several projects I wanted to participate in from their lists of projects and the summary of the study goals and tasks required for each of them. It's a great guide for any interested citizen scientist or a parent or teacher hoping to get children involved in citizen science.
After providing the proper background, the book delves into a host of citizen science projects anyone can participate in, and it guides the reader through getting started with projects in SciStarter. The projects range from nature projects that require data collection in backyards, lakes, and beaches to online projects citizen scientists can get involved in without leaving the house. I identified several projects I wanted to participate in from their lists of projects and the summary of the study goals and tasks required for each of them. It's a great guide for any interested citizen scientist or a parent or teacher hoping to get children involved in citizen science.
December 9, 2019
The Field Guide to Citizen Science is well-crafted, featuring an easily accessible layout and a huge selection of ideas to contribute to the worldwide scientific conversation. Many of these projects seem so simple, like they couldn’t possibly make a difference, but the key is the community effort aspect. If millions of individuals take part in these seemingly small acts of science, they can help to predict patterns in viruses and diseases, analyze the effects of mankind’s daily life on the natural world, and potentially help turnaround our harmful effects on the ecosystem. It’s very inspiring to see how many ways people can get involved, and this guide lays it out in an easy-to-read fashion, giving you the play-by-play on making a difference. If you’re looking to take part in something big that could help scientists increase their world reach, this is a great starting point.
NOTE: I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
NOTE: I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
March 15, 2022
Let me cut to the chase here - just log on to SciStarter.org and you can find all the projects you want without ever having to open this book. That said, the introduction and examples of how people used citizen science are interesting and inspiring. And the website is a lot to dig through, so it's nice to have it organized for the reader.
October 31, 2019
Great introduction to the field of citizen science.
September 20, 2025
The Field Guide to Citizen Science is a promotional book trying to encourage readers to take more active roles in being unpaid science contributors for their program SciStarter. And yes the authors do list the alternative sites that can be used otherwise but their emphasis for recognition is through the site.
The book has a sluggishly dull and repetitive start of information that takes up to 50 pages of padding before the reader gets to even see a possible project. And these heavy intermissions are found throughout.
Once the book starts into projects, it divides them up based on accessibility or whether they may make for a nice communal project. The reader at any part of this must also remember these are personal preferences of the author and that what is included is only the tip of the iceberg. And scattered through are personal stories of other citizen scientists.
Some of the projects are commendable, mostly from the standpoint of those who want to get to know their world a bit more intimately while others are questionable from a security/paranoia front. As a result the book gets a begrudging extra star from me.
Otherwise I am not a fan that these three authors use science as their religion and as a result glorify in the negative eco-war where climate change plays no natural roles. Other supportable evidence for this perspective is they celebrate the recording of bumblebee species in the hope you'll find the next endangered species (what a positive outlook!) and recommend a project that willingly destroys mosquito breeding grounds when these peaks are still an important part of the ecosystem. And why are we specifically needing to teach AI the complex emotions behind trolling and racism?
All in all some ideas were decent, the presentation horrible and the book would be better off presented to the reader as a summary rather than an actual read where you waste metaphorical years as you slog through its pages.
The book has a sluggishly dull and repetitive start of information that takes up to 50 pages of padding before the reader gets to even see a possible project. And these heavy intermissions are found throughout.
Once the book starts into projects, it divides them up based on accessibility or whether they may make for a nice communal project. The reader at any part of this must also remember these are personal preferences of the author and that what is included is only the tip of the iceberg. And scattered through are personal stories of other citizen scientists.
Some of the projects are commendable, mostly from the standpoint of those who want to get to know their world a bit more intimately while others are questionable from a security/paranoia front. As a result the book gets a begrudging extra star from me.
Otherwise I am not a fan that these three authors use science as their religion and as a result glorify in the negative eco-war where climate change plays no natural roles. Other supportable evidence for this perspective is they celebrate the recording of bumblebee species in the hope you'll find the next endangered species (what a positive outlook!) and recommend a project that willingly destroys mosquito breeding grounds when these peaks are still an important part of the ecosystem. And why are we specifically needing to teach AI the complex emotions behind trolling and racism?
All in all some ideas were decent, the presentation horrible and the book would be better off presented to the reader as a summary rather than an actual read where you waste metaphorical years as you slog through its pages.
May 7, 2020
Here's an exciting opportunity to end boredom and make some ties in a fractured world! I quickly devoured this little book leaving a trail of post it notes to mark my passage. There are so many intriguing possibilities here to explore and make a real life, actual, scientific contribution. There are links to real scientific studies that people can contribute to, and the variety is staggering. What would you like to do? Where? How often? A one time observation from your kitchen window? Would you rather have a larger ongoing project? Do you want to stay clean? Get dirty? Get out in the wild? Sit at your computer? There really is something that anyone can participate in and make a contribution to our scientific understanding. I highly recommend this book and encourage others to read and find their way into this fascinating and blossoming field!
August 17, 2020
A great beginner's guide to getting yourself ready to do citizen science, with entry points for parents, teachers, or group leaders who want to get their kids involved as well. Most of the book is made up of examples of projects you can do, in categories reflecting your reality--online or in person? Big commitment or one-time experience? I was unfamiliar with the website they are most associated with that is a clearinghouse and database for ongoing citizen science projects, but the book's descriptions helped me understand the practical aspects of it.
May 20, 2025
Interesting but will be outdated soon
This is less of a “how-to” and more of a list of current citizen science projects and their related organizations/websites. There is a long history of citizens contributing to scientific research by collecting and sharing their observations to relevant parties, but this book is very focused on existing projects. For that reason, it doesn’t have much staying power.
This is less of a “how-to” and more of a list of current citizen science projects and their related organizations/websites. There is a long history of citizens contributing to scientific research by collecting and sharing their observations to relevant parties, but this book is very focused on existing projects. For that reason, it doesn’t have much staying power.
August 24, 2020
Short and sweet, this guide is a quick primer on jumping into citizen science initiatives, including a rich list and timetable for a variety of investigations. It's a great addition to my middle school science educator library and has great resources to jump off from to include in teaching or to DIY your own program.
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