What do monk Gregor Mendel, fossil collector Mary Anning, and politician Benjamin Franklin have in common? All three are famous “citizen scientists.” Without a degree in the field, they made significant scientific discoveries. Anyone who is curious about discovering the world can become a hobby researcher themselves through citizen science and support science: observing animals and plants, analyzing languages, researching the weather—anything is possible!
In Austria, there are numerous citizen science projects and initiatives in which people of all ages, including young target groups, can participate and contribute to research themselves. Many projects can be easily integrated into the classroom and address interdisciplinary topics. Some projects are even aimed directly at schoolchildren. For example, in the annual “Citizen Science Award” research competition, which takes place throughout Austria from April to the end of July, school classes can join families, individuals, and youth groups in conducting research and win prizes for their dedicated participation in citizen science projects.
However, citizen science is more than just a research approach. As an educational and teaching tool, it offers great added value for students and teachers alike. Students benefit from active learning and engaging with scientific work and research processes. This helps them develop skills such as critical thinking and experience self-efficacy. For teachers, citizen science projects offer an opportunity to integrate science and research into their lessons and actively exchange ideas with researchers on the latest developments in research. But how can citizen science projects be integrated into schools?
The training course will show what citizen science is, how projects can be integrated into lessons, and which current projects are suitable for schools. It will also look at formats for cooperation with research institutions. Afterwards, participants will discuss the many possibilities of this teaching tool, focusing on different types of schools and disciplines. By the end of the training, teachers should know how they can use citizen science projects to introduce their students to active learning and independent research, and where they can find current citizen science projects to participate in.
The training course will take place online on November 20, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Teachers from all types of schools and subjects can register to participate via the University of Teacher Education Vienna from August 15 to September 15. To register
