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Short Abstract

In the talk, I present a framework that helps explain how design and features influence user engagement and how this may impact the nature experience and the usability of biodiversity observation data for different goals.

Abstract

In the last two decades, citizen science has received a major boost through the use of technology and numerous smartphone apps have been created. Numerous mobile apps are used worldwide for plant and animal observation and identification, many of which initially appear very similar. However, a closer analysis of their human-computer interaction, design, and functions reveals distinct approaches. These differences ultimately create varying potentials and challenges for citizen science observations and the experience of nature. In the talk, I will present a framework that helps to understand how design and features influence user engagement. Drawing on literature, a systematic review of widely used apps as well as ten years of interdisciplinary work with the app Naturblick, different types of user journeys and motivations for using these apps are highlighted. I will also discuss how different apps support varying levels of involvement and how this affects both the nature experience and data usability. By critically assessing how app design impacts data usability and nature experiences, the talk provide insights for both app developers and the citizen science community to enhance engagement and data quality.