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Are you currently working on a concept for a citizen science project and wondering whether you have thought of everything to ensure that your project can have its full impact? Or are you already in the middle of your research work and want to know what you can do now to get the most out of your project? In collaboration with Citizen Science Zurich, Schweiz forscht has developed a project guide to support project leaders in the planning and implementation of participatory research projects.
The checklist offers reflection questions that encourage reflection on core elements of participatory project design, tips and hints for implementation as well as further information and links to helpful resources.
At the start of the project, the checklist provides a structured framework for clarifying key questions within the management team and gathering the different perspectives, motivations and expectations of those involved: What added value does the project offer for citizen scientists and for full-time researchers? What requirements do participants need to fulfill to participate and what barriers can possibly be removed? Have resources been considered to promote collaboration and communication? How can the project be evaluated and on the basis of what criteria? However, it is also helpful to address these issues at a later stage and take measures to improve the quality of a project.