T166 Online Citizen Science: Engaging the Public to Solve Real Science Challenges in Planetary Geology and Terrestrial Geoscience

Tuesday, 2 November 2010
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mile High Ballroom Prefunction

EarthTrek - A NEW GLOBAL CITIZEN SCIENCE PORTAL THAT HELPS SCIENTISTS TO ENGAGE THE PUBLIC IN REAL RESEARCH

Paper number: T166-5
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 9:00 AM – 9:15 AM

Authors

  • Gary B. Lewis Presenting Author
    Geological Society of America, Boulder, CO

Abstract

Citizen science programs are not new and many scientists can report good success at engaging the public in their research. However, many scientists who could really befit from the collective pool of eager volunteers do not have the time or patience to develop system to track and manage the collective “enthusiasm”. EarthTrek takes on that role and provides scientists with the support for their venture into a citizen science program. EarthTrek manages the people, rewards them for their involvement and provides avenues for scientists to communicate with the participants. Scientists concentrate on developing sounds collection protocols (with EarthTrek’s help if needed) and then provide feedback once the data stars to come in.

EarthTrek is about linking people with real research. EarthTrek will work with scientists from every field as long as projects are collecting data for research, are time constrained and the lead scientists agree to a communication schedule for results back to participants. Examples of active science projects include weathering rates on gravestones, invasive plant species and phenology. www.goearthtrek.com