Abstract
The natural sciences include the life and physical sciences and study nature through observing and understanding phenomena, testing hypotheses, and performing experiments. Key principles such as reliability, validity, objectivity, and predictability are achieved through transparent assumptions, methods, data, and interpretations as well as multidisciplinarity.In this chapter we present insights into the genesis of citizen science in the natural sciences and reflect on the intellectual history of the natural sciences in relation to citizen science today. Further, we consider the current scientific approaches and achievements of natural science projects, which are applying citizen science to address empirical and/or theoretical research, focusing on monitoring programmes. Presenting examples and case studies, we focus on the key characteristics of the scientific inquiries being investigated in the natural sciences through citizen science. Finally, we discuss the consequences of engagement in scientific processes in relation to the future of natural scientists in a complex world.
Highlights
The natural sciences combine the life sciences, which involve the study of life and organisms such as microorganisms, plants, and animals including human beings, and the physical sciences, which are focused on non-living systems such as celestial objects and the structure and composition of matters and substances
Earth science, chemistry, physics, and astronomy are regarded as basic research fields in the physical sciences, whereas astrophysics, digital electronics, and nanotechnology are examples of applied research fields
We start with the question ‘How are key characteristics of the natural sciences applied by contemporary citizen science?’ moving on to ‘What processes of scientific inquiry are investigated through citizen science?’ we explore the more theoretical question ‘What are the consequences of engagement in scientific processes?’, in respect to the future of natural scientists in a complex world
Summary
The natural sciences combine the life sciences, which involve the study of life and organisms such as microorganisms, plants, and animals including human beings, and the physical sciences, which are focused on non-living systems such as celestial objects and the structure and composition of matters and substances. We provide insights into the research approaches within projects and programmes and highlight scientific achievements as well as societal outcomes from citizen science in the natural sciences.
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