An evening of exploration and discussion about citizen science with three panel members. More details of the citizen science event >>
Citizen science: Is it just for scientists? Panellist: Clare Wilkinson, University of the West of England Bristol.
Citizen science is one of many public engagement methods now available to researchers and members of the public, and it is broadly seen to be both an opportunity for participants to contribute to the scientific process and to gain something in return. With an extensive history in fields such as natural history, archaeology, and astronomy, the tools of social and digital media have particularly increased citizen sciences expansion, though many of the methods it uses are akin to approaches used by social scientists for many years.
In this talk we will consider if citizen science is just for scientific topics? Or does it play a role in other types of research, such as that being conducted in social science and health fields. We will also explore whether citizen science is just for scientists in the sense that some raise ethical concerns as to how citizen science may or may not value and respect the input of citizens that participate in such projects. Using one or two examples from citizen science that has taken place beyond the boundaries of the natural sciences, we will explore the potential benefits but also possible pitfalls, citizen science can involve.
Clare Wilkinson is a Professor in Science Communication and Co-Director of the Science Communication Unit, at UWE Bristol, UK. The Science Communication Unit is a research centre that seeks to bring science and society closer together, recognised for its internationally leading research, creative approaches to practice and outstanding teaching in science engagement.
Clare is a sociologist by background and a born and bred Devonian. Her research explores media representations of science, how people engage with scientific issues and the impact of science communication activities. Clare’s work has been published in a number of international journals like PLOS ONE, Public Understanding of Science, and Journalism. She is the co-author (with Emma Weitkamp) of Creative Research Communication: Theory and Practice (Manchester University Press), which is about to be published as a second edition, and is the Series Editor for the book series, Contemporary Issues in Science Communication (Bristol University Press). Clare can be reached on social media @clarewilk4.