When you read articles or watch TV, you may meet with the words, "citizen science (公众科学)", every now and then.It's scientific research done, in whole or in part, by non-professional (非专业的) scientists in public. They can include teachers, students, etc and act as volunteers.
For researchers, citizen science can greatly expand (扩大) the area of a study without making it costly. For example, a bird survey involving volunteers can cover North America in a few weeks and cost a small amount of money. However, paying scientists to perform the same survey would be very expensive, and it would make the study harder.
For volunteers, citizen science can increase their knowledge of science. Besides, it can be fun and sometimes quite interesting. Many volunteers join in citizen science because they are interested in the environment.
As to where citizen science takes place, it depends on different research programs. Some will require people to go to a challenging place in the wild.Many universities, for example, have certain programs which invite local gardeners to study their plants and offer scientists information on their plants from their gardens.
If you want to take part in a citizen science project, you should start by being clear about what topic you like.If they agree with your request, you can offer your help as a citizen scientist.
A. This term is also known as "crowd science".
B. Some people may hate taking part in citizen science.
C. Making these people do research has great advantages.
D. For example, volunteers can carry out research in their gardens.
E. And they'd like a chance to communicate with real scientists in the field.
F. Then call a certain organization and ask if you can help with one of its projects.
G. But some research programs can save people the trouble of traveling a long way to work.
