S2:E7 Why Citizen Science is Important and How You Can Get Involved

Did you know that everyone uses the scientific method everyday, even when we don't realize it? That's highly recommended when making any important decisions, however, it's not quite Citizen Science. Citizen Science is when anyone, regardless of qualifications or training, can contribute to the collection of analysis of data in the natural world as part of a collaborative project with professional scientists. You may have heard of apps like iNaturalist as an example. In this episode, we sit down with Danni Washington to discuss the role and value of Citizen Science, and why everyone should give it a try. Danni is a Science Communicator and big time ocean advocate. She has hosted multiple TV shows, and now a couple incredible podcasts as well. She's a major believer in the need to make science more accessible to all, from citizen science work all the way up to evolving our higher education system around science to make it more inclusive. Please go check out her site and enjoy her amazing work. JOIN US IN COSTA RICA Danni is also joining us on our Costa Rican Sea Turtle Adventure! This is Animalia's first formal, IRL Citizen Science program. We are taking 25 lucky people down to Costa Rica from May 25th to June 1st to work with the incredible Leatherback Sea Turtle! It's an experience you won't want to miss so please get your ticket today here while they last! In This Episode 2:35 - What is Citizen Science? 10:10 - Making Science more Accessible 16:00 - How can we make Citizen Science most effective? 20:00 - Info about our Costa Rican Trip! 20:45 - How the Smartphone has changed Citizen Science 21:30 - Will we one day all be participating in Citizen Science constantly via our live health data? 25:40 - Social Motivations in Citizen Science 29:50 - How to evaluate the Legitimacy of a Citizen Science project Danni's Recommendations A) Book - The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho B) Film/TV - Game Changers by Louie Psihoyos C) Wildlife - Orcas! D) Earth-Friendly Lifestyle Change - Eat more plant based food & know where your food comes from