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| Paper: |
Citizen Science and Student Attitudes Toward Science |
| Volume: |
531, ASP2020: Embracing the Future: Astronomy Teaching and Public Engagement |
| Page: |
415 |
| Authors: |
Cobb, B. E. |
| Abstract: |
“Citizen science” projects like the Zooniverse allow volunteers and professional scientists to work together to advance science. The benefits to science from these projects have been proven, but less attention has been paid to their impacts on participants. We developed an assignment requiring students to engage in citizen science and to reflect on that experience. The main educational purpose of this assignment is to improve students' attitude toward science and their knowledge of the process of modern science. While originally developed for traditional in-person classes, this assignment translates easily into online or distance learning courses. This assignment aligns with high-impact educational practices, since citizen science presents a hands-on opportunity for students to participate in authentic scientific research. This assignment has been successfully used with students in several introductory astronomy courses and, because citizen science projects span a wide variety of topics, the assignment can easily be modified and integrated into courses covering many subjects. |
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