A qualitative assessment of Philippine-based marine conservation programs using a citizen science evaluation framework

• Main Author: Maglasang, Ma. Michelle J.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2021
• Subjects: Marine resources conservation > Philippines; Evaluation; PERT (Network analysis); Science—Study and teaching; Volunteers; Biology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etdm_bio/5; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1005&context=etdm_bio
• Institution: De La Salle University

A rising field in academia, citizen science is playing an increasingly important role in scientific research. However, program evaluations and best practices for project implementation involving citizen or participatory science practices and volunteer engagements remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate selected marine citizen science projects in the Philippines using the Citizen Science Evaluation Framework developed by Kieslinger, et al (2018), specifically along the three dimensions of participatory science: scientific impact, learning and empowerment of participants, and the project's impact for wider society. The Citizen Science Evaluation Framework consists of supporting questions answerable by yes or no. And based on the evaluation, each ‘yes’ answer to the questions further indicates that the program is a good model for a citizen science project. Interviews and reviews of project reports were also done to corroborate evaluation data. The open framework used in the study has the potential to be remodeled and developed for marine citizen science projects in the Philippines. Project evaluation using a variety of assessment tools, as was utilized in this study, would make evaluations much stronger and comprehensive. Successful citizen science programs encompass and engage a multi-skilled team of stakeholders, including local volunteers and citizens, academic and research scientists, conservation and management partners, educators, and evaluators. Overall, a proper evaluation framework will help professionalize the citizen science community, foster targeted funding support, and increase the desired impact of citizen science on science and society.