Using Citizen Science to Create Meaningful Learning Experiences and Enhance the Learning of Science for Second Grade Students

Citizen science is a new and growing field of research that brings about new knowledge and understanding through the collaboration of citizens in scientific research. As citizen science continues to grow, it is essential to consider its potential to encourage education and learning opportunities. The capstone focuses on answering the question: How can citizen science create meaningful learning experiences and enhance the learning of science for second grade students? Participation in citizen science projects can assist in developing science literacy, enhance learning, increase interest in science, increase understanding of the scientific process, and connect students with the world around them. Research shows that students who learn through hands-on activities have a higher retention rate than those taught through reading and lectures. The hands-on components of citizen science can also help students access more information, especially students who may struggle to gain access to information in traditional ways. The lesson plans created for this capstone were created to guide second grade students through a citizen science project while developing observation, prediction, data collecting, and data analysis skills