The seventh edition of the Citizen Science in Schools program, corresponding to the 2023-2024 academic year, has had the participation of 580 students from 20 schools who have collaborated in 8 scientific projects of different disciplines.

A pedagogical model based on direct experience

The main objective of this initiative promoted, since 2017, by the Citizen Science Office of the Barcelona City Council is to raise awareness among students and teachers about the importance of getting involved in scientific research to address social and environmental challenges. To this end, the project uses an innovative educational model that combines theory with direct experience. Throughout 15 hours of work per project, students have learned to apply the scientific method, use digital tools for data collection and analyze results, always with the support of research professionals.

This approach has allowed participants to develop skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork. As a result, final products have been generated in the classroom, such as posters, videos, board games and models, which have been used to disseminate their research in the territory.

The Citizen Science in Schools 2023-2024 experience in six key points

1. Growing interest from educational centers

This year, the program has received a total of 47 applications from schools, of which 29 class groups have been awarded projects. This reflects a growing interest on the part of the educational community, which consolidates citizen science as a pedagogical resource. Moreover, thanks to the personalized follow-up provided by the Citizen Science Office and the research teams, the projects have achieved excellent results.

2. Diverse topics and territorial involvement in the projects

The 8 projects developed during this academic year embrace topics as varied as:

• the monitoring of microplastics (Microplastic Watchers, by Observadores del mar)
• the hydrology and ecological state of a river (RiuNet)
• biodiversity of the phenological cycles of plants (RitmeNatura)
• tiger mosquito alert (Mosquito Alert)
• the impact of floods (Floodup)
• the sound map of the city (Mapa sonor)
• urban flora associated with allergies (Plant*es)
• odors and quality of life (OdourCollect).

These initiatives have been made possible thanks to the collaboration between 15 professionals from the eight research groups and the participating schools, which have established “research partnerships” to adapt each project to the specific needs of the students and the territory.

3. Consolidation of the program: participation is doubled compared to its beginnings

In its first edition (2017-2018), the program had the participation of 250 students. Today, this figure has more than doubled, reaching 580. There has also been a notable growth in other indicators: schools have increased from 12 to 20, class groups from 12 to 29 and teachers involved from 12 to 32. These data show the success of the program and the growing interest in incorporating citizen science as a key resource in formal education.

4. The experience contributes to raising awareness and scientific culture

Surveys conducted before and after the program show that 64% of students believe that science is important after participating in the program, a significant improvement over the initial 57%. They also confirm a high degree of satisfaction among the participants. Forty-four percent of teachers rate the experience as “very satisfactory” and 33% as “quite satisfactory”.

5. We continue to explore

With our sights set on future editions, the program continues to work to offer relevant and accessible projects in a greater number of educational centers. Likewise, the objective of encouraging the active participation of students in scientific research is maintained, contributing to create a more critical and involved society in global challenges.

6. Disseminating citizen science

Finally, video reports have been prepared on some of the projects carried out. These materials offer a more detailed view of the impact of the program and the dedication of all the actors involved.