Learning the language of science: A pilot study exploring citizen scientists’ identity and communication with researchers

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Although the involvement of citizen scientists in research can contribute to scientific benefits, much remains unknown about participants’ lived experiences in research. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore how citizen scientists describe their role in, motivation for, and communication with researchers. Methods: In-depth interviews (N = 9) were conducted with citizen scientists at a translational health research center. Results: Key results include that citizen scientists were invested in learning researchers’ discipline-specific language and viewed small group sizes as conducive to their active participation. Conclusions: Programs can apply these findings in an effort to improve citizen scientists’ long-term engagement in research.

Keywords

• Citizen science
• interpersonal communication
• qualitative methods
• health communication
• identity