Citizen science in research practice: from concept to implementation
- 5 ECTS credits
- Academic year 2026-2027
- DP00BE56
Education information
Implementation date
01.09.2026 - 08.12.2026
Enrollment period
-
Education type
Field-specific studies
Alternativity of education
Optional
Location
Enrollment and further information
The course is intended primarily for doctoral researchers at the University of Oulu who are interested in integrating citizen science approaches into their research practice. The course is open to participants from different disciplinary backgrounds and is designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange of ideas. Doctoral researchers from all doctoral programmes at the University of Oulu may participate, provided that the course content is relevant to their research interests and professional development. The course is particularly suitable for students interested in participatory research methods, stakeholder engagement, interdisciplinary research, and socially relevant research practices.
The priority group is doctoral students of the Faculty of Science; however, the content of the motivation letters is very important, and the described motivation will be the main criterion for enrollment. The order of registration will be used as an additional selection criterion only in case of any controversial situation.
A short motivation letter (no more than 300 words) should be sent to mykyta.peregrym@oulu.fi until August 9, 2026
Education description
The course introduces the concept, principles, and methodological foundations of citizen science in contemporary research. Students become familiar with ethical considerations, stakeholder engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the societal relevance of citizen science approaches. The course includes expert presentations and case studies from ongoing citizen science projects across different disciplines. Participants work collaboratively in small interdisciplinary groups to design, develop, and implement their own citizen science project proposals, including research planning, participant involvement, communication strategies, and practical implementation. The course also addresses the evaluation of project outcomes, impact assessment, and reflection on challenges and lessons learned during project implementation.
Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- know the theoretical foundations, principles, and ethical considerations of citizen science in contemporary research practice;
- identify and critically evaluate different methodological approaches and models of citizen science across disciplines;
- design a citizen science project, including defining research questions, stakeholder engagement strategies, data collection methods, and implementation plans;
- collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams to develop and manage research initiatives involving public participation;
- apply practical skills in implementing and evaluating citizen science activities in real-world contexts;
- communicate project goals, processes, and results to both academic and non-academic audiences;
- assess the scientific, societal, and participatory impact of citizen science projects and reflect on challenges and lessons learned during implementation.