Many citizen science projects deal with high attrition rates. The Dutch Great Influenza Survey is an exception to this rule. In the current study, we conducted an online questionnaire (N=1610) to investigate the motivation and learning impact of this loyal, active participant base. Results show that the desire to contribute to a larger (scientific) goal is the most important motivator for all types of participants and that availability of scientific information and data are important for learning. We suggest similar projects seek (social) media attention regularly, linking project findings to current events and including the importance of participants' contribution.
Date of publication
Jan 21, 2016
Category:
Article
Motivation and learning impact of Dutch flu-trackers
Volume 15Issue 012016Special Issue: Citizen Science, Part I, 2016 (PCST Stories / 1)