Accepted Poster
Poster Short Abstract
Most participants in the citizen science project Lakes in Leisure Time see their involvement as research. They base this on the university backing, use of scientific methods, and knowledge creation — though few feel they can “do research” themselves.
Poster Abstract
Lakes in Leisure Time is a citizen science initiative in Denmark where children, youth, and adults collect ecological data on lakes via Lake Camps for children (2021–2024) and Find a Lake events for everyone. This poster presents findings from questionnaires investigating whether participants believe the activities constitute “research” and why. Overall, 73–86 % of Lake Camp respondents (n=74) and 100 % of Find a Lake respondents (n=70) judged their engagement as research. Their explanations clustered around three themes: (1) institutional authority — the projects are run by universities and researchers; (2) methodological rigor — participants use scientific tools and systematic measurement; and (3) production of new knowledge — data contribute to understanding lake ecology and water quality. Younger participants often emphasized the use of instruments and learning, whereas adult respondents more frequently associated research with institutional affiliation and scientific credibility. Many stated they “help researchers” and see their contributions as part of the research process. Yet, while many reported increased confidence to assist scientists after participation, only a minority felt empowered to conduct research independently. These results suggest that citizen scientists’ recognition of “real research” is grounded both in institutional legitimacy and participatory experience. Understanding these perceptions can help design more inclusive and credible citizen science projects, fostering deeper public engagement in scientific knowledge production.
Poster Session