Ecological research and monitoring that involves the public can influence ecological literacy in two key ways — not only does the public gain an understanding and appreciation for ecological processes, but also for the process of science itself. This understanding of both ecology and the scientific process can help citizens become better land stewards as well as more scientifically literate civic participants. A variety of projects can be appropriate for citizen scientist participation, from large-scale national studies of the effects of climate change on particular taxa, to place-based local watershed monitoring programs or research on species of special concern. This talk discusses a framework that encompasses the range of ways ecologists can involve both youth and adults in their research and monitoring projects, from less intensive to more intensive approaches.

Results/Conclusions

This participatory ecological research framework includes the benefits and drawbacks of different approaches for both scientists and participants, and specific strategies for involving people in each stage of a research or monitoring project. Cases of citizen science projects in conservation biology and participatory ecological research serve as concrete examples of the framework. Included are strategies for scientists to distinguish what types of projects lend themselves to participatory approaches and what types do not, and how to effectively involve people in their work to improve public understanding of ecological science without sacrificing research objectives.