Lifelong Learners and Science Capital: Motivation, Development, and Engagement of Citizen Scientists and Science Hobbyists

• In Event: Poster Session 2
  In Poster Session: Lifelong Learning Trajectories: Connections Between Hobbyists and Makers

Abstract

This study investigated lifelong science learners, some who engaged in citizen science projects and some who did not, to understand how science interests develop over the lifespan. A nation-wide survey was conducted with 2119 non-Citizen Scientists and 745 Citizen Scientists. Citizen Scientists reported different motivations, interests, and experiences than the non-Citizen Scientists. Citizen Scientists were more likely than non-Citizen Scientists to report sharing information with others, educating youth, and being influenced by formal and informal education as well as publishing articles, speaking to the public, and using electronic media to communicate with others. Citizen Scientists reported improved science process skills and a better understanding of the nature of science as a result of participating in their hobby.

Authors

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Gina Childers, North Carolina State University

• Thomas Andre, Iowa State University

• Elysa Corin, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

• Rebecca Hite, North Carolina State University