A total of 20 experts from 10 European countries participated to discuss key challenges and opportunities for integrating citizen science into education systems. Within the European “RIECS-Concept” project, the OeAD is responsible for facilitating dialogue with stakeholders from various sectors of education to ensure their input is incorporated into the design of a research infrastructure for citizen science.
The workshop focused on four key areas: the integration of citizen science into curricula, access to suitable and adaptable materials, issues related to continuing education and professional development, and the long-term maintenance of communities and networks. During the discussions, it became clear that citizen science can be particularly effective when teachers and researchers are better connected, when practical support services are available, and when materials are designed in such a way that they can be easily integrated into different educational contexts.
Another key point was the need for institutional and structural support. Participants emphasized that citizen science should not depend solely on individual committed individuals but must be conceived as a sustainable component of educational processes. They also highlighted the importance of recognition, visibility, and reliable framework conditions for fostering engagement in the long term.
The results of the workshop provide valuable impetus for further work within the RIECS-Concept project and contribute to the development of concrete approaches for a future citizen science infrastructure.
