Accepted Poster
Poster Short Abstract
Mapping citizen involvement in the projects of a nursing research unit in Portugal reveals progress and challenges in implementing citizen science principles in nursing research.
Poster Abstract
Introduction: The Nursing School of the University of Coimbra has stood out as a pioneering institution in Portugal by integrating citizen science (CS) as a strategic axis of development within its research unit, UICISA:E (Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing). Objective: This study aimed to map citizen involvement in research projects registered within UICISA:E. Methods: This is a qualitative study developed in two stages. In the first stage, a documentary analysis was conducted of the ongoing and completed Associated Study Projects (PEA), based on information available on the institutional website. In the second stage, between April and July 2025, seven focus groups were conducted across the different research clusters of UICISA:E, involving 39 researchers. Notably, a citizen participated in the development of the focus group guide. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: As of March 11, 2025, 69 ongoing PEAs were identified, of which 18 (26.1%) included some level of citizen involvement; however, only 10 specified the adopted approach (collaborative, consultative, and/or co-creation). Among the 10 completed PEAs, only two described citizen involvement. The focus group discussions highlighted researchers’ experiences in implementing CS-oriented investigations, the potential of CS to strengthen nursing research and foster closer connections between science and society, as well as the challenges encountered. Conclusion: The institutionalization of CS within UICISA:E requires researcher training, incentives, and the dissemination of best practices for citizen involvement in nursing research.
Poster Session