Summary
Many citizen science initiatives in Canada are led by academic and non-profit groups. However, several federal science and research programs are seeking broader integration of citizen science and meaningful engagement with community groups and individuals. Where appropriate, these collaborations may help address data gaps, strengthen Canada’s research and innovation capacity, and support government priorities such as open science. A comprehensive understanding of the state of citizen science in Canada could better inform decision-making, policy, and regulation while prioritizing made-in-Canada solutions and partnerships.
Citizen science—sometimes referred to as community science or participatory science—engages the public as research partners with valuable skills, perspectives, and experiences to contribute. Individuals, community groups, and organizations can participate across diverse fields, such as ecology, astronomy, public health, or history. The type of collaboration most appropriate and effective for a research project will vary and collaboration may begin with communities approaching professional researchers with ideas, or researchers seeking out interested volunteers.
At the request of Public Services and Procurement Canada, the CCA will assess the state of citizen science in Canada and how it compares internationally. It will explore how citizen science is being applied and its impact across fields and disciplines.
