Training of CS project participants

Citizen scientists can offer insights and generate new ideas, but sometimes they lack training and their contribution could result in inconsistent and incorrect data. It is very important to ensure that participants receive adequate training to collect precise data and make valuable contributions to the project. As regards the role of librarians in the training of citizen science project participants, they could provide the necessary information on the following topics:

• Training practical skills on collecting the samples

• for collecting samples (IT, mobile apps, etc.)
• for describing metadata

• First, scientists prepares the protocol for data collecting (define sample and target population, sample size, sampling technique; consider sampling error management). This protocol details where and when samples will be taken and why they need to be taken
• Citizen scientists get acquainted with the protocol
• Then they take the samples in the field
• Finally, they ensure that the collected samples are safely stored until they are ready for use

When planning your sample collection, you need to identify the following:

• Type of sampling (random or systemic)
  
• Location of sampling (it should be safe, accessible, suitable for your investigation)
  
• Sampling methods (along with the method determination, the equipment that will be needed is also determined)

Types of sample collection

• Methods for study or self-study for CS participants training

  • Self-testing practice (involve “retrieval practice,” trying to recall or retrieve information from memory)
  • Taking summarizing notes (allows you to find and focus on the important information)
  • Discussing topics with colleagues (stimulates ideas, provides fresh thoughts, refines the concept)
  • Keep a running glossary of new or unfamiliar terms (help ensure that readers have a collective understanding of the language and concepts used in a document)
  • Educational games (increase overall motivation, great way to improve creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills)
  • Work through practice questions (highlight the gaps in your knowledge, space out learning, apply knowledge)

• Training/hand-out material preparation

• Determine the purpose: the first step in preparing a handout is to determine its purpose. Decide on what you want the handout to accomplish and what information you want to include. 
• Create an outline: once you have determined the purpose of your handout, create an outline of the key points that you want to cover. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your handout is well-structured.
• Use clear and concise language: your handout should be easy to understand and concise. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that your audience may not be familiar with.  
• Include visual aids: visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and images can help convey your message more effectively. Make sure they are relevant and clearly labeled. 
• Choose the right format: decide on the format that you want to use for your handout. You can use a simple text document or create a more visually appealing design using various tools.
• Review and edit: once you have created your handout, review and edit it carefully to ensure that there are no errors or inconsistencies. 
• Print and distribute: finally, print your handout and distribute it to your audience. Consider providing both physical and digital copies for convenience. 

• Simple, clear language throughout
  
• Explained any terms
• Subdivided long handouts with headings
• Splitting up long paragraphs
• Simple comprehension of the content