Objectif Sciences International

Participatory Research for Impact

Thomas EGLI — 2026-06-11T12:43:27Z

Following the international webinar organized on May 27, 2026, this page presents a monograph (of the types of actors, countries concerned, practices, issues, and audiences) and several tools that had been presented there. This page is available to the community of practice.

Sommaire

Participatory Research for Impact is not another additional sector, but rather a choice in the objectives and organization of possible Participatory Research projects. It is therefore a way of organizing the production of knowledge, structuring action, and making projects more useful, more robust, and more sustainable, more specifically in service of the SDGs. It makes it possible to connect, in a single movement, research, education, territories, public policies, operators, local communities, and funders.

The purpose of the webinar was not only to present the +50 projects that had been submitted through the continuous call for proposals over the previous 3 months, but also to show that there is already, at the international level, a very concrete basis for bringing about a global coalition of participatory research projects capable of producing scientific results in service of local transformations and solid development trajectories.

The presentation was able to highlight that in a great many countries, project leaders, researchers, NGOs, educators, local authorities, citizens, and economic actors are already working on the same major questions. The challenge is no longer only to generate ideas, but to structure them, make them compatible, fundable, replicable, and give them continuity.

Participatory Science Hackathon for the SDGs

In 2026, two major Participatory Science hackathons invite you to move from idea to real project: in August in Spain, around the total solar eclipse, then in November in the Indian Ocean, to design and structure projects useful to territories, science, and sustainable development. Two strong opportunities to join multidisciplinary teams, build skills, and leave with a project, a network, and a concrete framework for action.

Project Monograph


See the Monograph presentation

An already international dynamic

The projects mentioned in the context of this work already cover a very wide range of countries, regions, and contexts. Initiatives exist or are proposed in Africa, Europe, Latin America, North America, and in very diverse territories: rural areas, cities, coastlines, mountains, forests, Indigenous territories, border regions, vulnerable areas, or areas with limited infrastructure.

Among the countries and areas mentioned are notably:

Burkina Faso, Zambia, Mozambique;
Congo-Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire;
Togo, Cameroon, Benin, Senegal;
Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Comoros;
Morocco, France, Spain;
Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Mexico;
United States / Texas;
Yasuní, Lithium Triangle, Uganda, Greenland, San Diego–Tijuana region, Colombian Amazon, subantarctic Patagonia, Sahel, East Africa, coasts, mountains, forests, and Indigenous territories.

This overview is already strategic information in itself. It shows that Participatory Research for Impact is not a juxtaposition of isolated micro-projects. It already outlines a living geography of needs, skills, initiatives, and therefore a credible basis for large-scale cooperation.

The main types of actors concerned

The strength of this approach comes from the fact that it does not rely on a single type of actor. It relies on structured partnerships, where each party contributes a specific function. This is precisely what was recalled during the webinar.

Among the main types of actors concerned, we find:

Research organizations

universities;
academic laboratories;
scientific institutes;
field stations;
technical and scientific centers.

They provide the formulation of questions, methodological soundness, bibliographies, validation of protocols, analysis, and promotion of results.

Educational organizations

primary schools, middle schools, high schools;
higher education institutions;
training structures;
non-formal education actors.

They provide access to audiences, educational continuity, connection with learning processes, capacity building, and dissemination of knowledge.

Science mediation actors

science education associations;
science culture centers;
museums, parks, reserves;
mediation networks.

They make projects accessible, desirable, understandable, and appropriable by varied audiences.

Territorial and public organizations

local authorities;
environmental agencies;
site management structures;
public operators;
technical services.

They provide local anchoring, links with public policies, access to field sites, institutional continuity, and concrete uses of results.

Field organizations

local, national, or international NGOs;
community organizations;
cooperatives;
naturalist associations;
Indigenous or local knowledge organizations.

They provide detailed knowledge of social and ecological realities, relationships with the audiences concerned, the capacity for local implementation, and territorial legitimacy.

Economic actors

responsible tourism operators;
consulting firms;
technical structures;
impact enterprises;
scientific or logistical service providers.

They provide means of execution, professionalization, dissemination, scaling up, and sometimes the solvency of the model.

Funders and supporters

foundations;
patrons;
international institutions;
public donors;
impact investors.

They make it possible to finance structuring, seed funding, continuity, and scaling.

Citizens, participants, and communities

As required by the definition of so-called Participatory Research, they are not simple “beneficiaries” but are called upon to be observers, co-investigators, data producers, local relays, testers, knowledge brokers, ambassadors, and co-designers.

This is one of the most important ideas of the webinar: Participatory Research is not done on people nor only for them. It is done with them, and always as much as possible by them.

The areas of life and issues covered

The projects presented show that Participatory Research can be mobilized in almost all major areas of life:

Health
Human, community, reproductive, maternal, and child health, access to healthcare, vulnerabilities, relationships between environment and health.

Biodiversity
Fauna, flora, pollinators, medicinal plants, forests, discreet species, coastal ecosystems, algae, species monitoring, and restoration.

Agriculture and food
Food security, subsistence crops, aflatoxins, animal nutrition, biotechnologies, agroecological adaptation.

Water, coastlines, and oceans
Water quality, rivers, lakes, coastal areas, marine and subantarctic environments, waste monitoring, uses, resilience of coastal territories.

Climate and resilience
Natural risks, floods, drought, adaptation, environmental management, transformation of uses, community resilience.

Education
STEAM pedagogies, mathematics, educational artificial intelligence, free culture, capacity building, teacher training, and youth involvement.

Peace, justice, citizenship
Social cohesion, access to rights, local governance, citizen participation, mediation and trust-building mechanisms.

Digital technology and AI
Data, mapping, drones, GIS, gamification, visualization, digital infrastructures, open applications.

Participatory Research is a cross-cutting method for producing useful knowledge, mobilizable whenever a territory or organization needs to understand better in order to act better.

The directly concerned audiences

The projects described do not target a single “audience.” They mobilize very different audiences, because the problems themselves are multidimensional.

For example, we find:

children, adolescents, students;
teachers, educators, school leadership teams;
families and educational communities;
rural women, women farmers, women entrepreneurs;
peasant, Indigenous, Mapuche, Amazonian communities;
residents of cities, peri-urban areas, and coastlines;
fishers, livestock farmers, farmers, cooperatives;
caregivers, midwives, healers, mediators;
vulnerable, displaced people, people in situations of conflict or precariousness;
researchers, laboratories, NGOs, justices of the peace, community radio stations, local media.

What this changes concretely is the very way projects are designed. A project is not solid because it is well written. It becomes solid when it is capable of identifying who is truly concerned, who can participate, who can use the results, who can fund, who can relay, who can learn, and who can decide.

Concrete practices of Participatory Research for Impact

The webinar showed that practice is not limited either to a citizen workshop, to data collection, or to awareness-raising. A practice that is always as rich as possible relies on a complete chain:

an explicit research question;
a bibliography or minimal state of the art;
clearly formulated hypotheses or issues;
identified partners;
an understandable and realistic protocol;
participants prepared for their role;
effective production of data, observations, measurements, samples, traces, maps, or structured narratives;
an analysis phase after the fieldwork;
scientific, public, or educational dissemination;
capitalization making it possible to improve the project in the next operation.

In other words, we are not talking only about “doing a scientific activity.” We are talking about truly contributing to a research project, even if the formats are educational, community-based, territorial, or citizen-based.

Follow-up to be given to the monograph presented during the webinar

The monograph presented aims to show, in a single document, the diversity of the proposed projects, the diversity of the countries represented, the diversity of the audiences involved, and the diversity of the issues addressed.

It makes it possible:

to make visible what already exists;
to show that common logics run through very different projects;
to identify possible convergences;
to identify blind spots, overlaps, and structuring needs;
to reveal a potential coalition already in formation.

In its strategic function, it makes it possible to move from an impression of dispersion to an overall vision. It helps identify the topics, territories, actors, skills, audiences, opportunities, tools, and nodes to be addressed.

In an impact logic here as well, the monograph is therefore not only a synthesis document but also a tool for orientation, dialogue, and credibility for partners, institutions, and funders.

The tools presented during the webinar

Several tools were presented. They form a coherent set, ranging from the call for projects to operational management and scientific monitoring.

The continuous call for proposals

This tool makes it possible to bring projects to the surface over time, without depending on a single deadline. It is particularly suited to international and multi-actor dynamics, because it makes it possible:

to welcome the diversity of initiatives;
to progressively map needs, skills, and territories;
to identify possible synergies;
to structure entry into a coalition or program.

In practice, this tool is useful for any organization that wants to open a framework for welcoming and selecting projects without blocking innovation within an overly rigid calendar.

Submit a project: Participatory Research Project Creation – Permanent Call for Proposals

(See the Participatory Science Hackathon for the SDGs: https://www.training-for-development.com/-Participatory-Science-Step-1- )

The partnership framework for operations


See presentation of the Frame of partnership roadmaps

This tool recalls that any serious participatory science operation is based on a clear composition of functions. It is used to identify:

which partners are necessary;
what each one contributes;
what is missing;
how to avoid an operation relying on a single structure or on implicit expectations.

It is a particularly useful tool in the development phase, but also in the contracting or role-clarification phase.

The NGO Objectif Sciences International makes this tool available to any organization deploying one or more Participatory Research operations. For any interest in collaboration, contact us at info-un osi-ngo.org .

(See the Participatory Science Hackathon for the SDGs: https://www.training-for-development.com/-Participatory-Science-Step-1- )

The operation plan


See the presentation of the Operation plan tool

The operation plan was presented as a central tool. It is used to transform a field intention into a secure and manageable operation. It brings together in a single document:

the objectives;
the participants;
the responsibilities;
the planning;
the itineraries;
the resources;
the communications;
the safety and emergency elements.

Concretely, it is the tool that prevents operations from relying on oral memory, scattered messages, or implicit decisions. It makes it possible to know who does what, where, when, with what means, and according to what criteria.

(See the Participatory Science Hackathon for the SDGs: https://www.training-for-development.com/-Participatory-Science-Step-1- )

The research monitoring tool


See the presentation on the Real research monitoring tool

This tool makes it possible to verify whether a program is truly conducting participatory research, or only an interesting, educational, or useful activity.

It helps ask the right questions:

is the research question clear?
is there a bibliography?
have the scientific partners been identified?
are data actually being produced?
are analyses planned?
will the results be shared?
do the participants understand what they are helping to produce?
does the operation create value useful to the territory?

It is a quality-securing tool. Its main value is that it transforms a qualitative judgment into an improvement roadmap.

(See the Participatory Science Hackathon for the SDGs: https://www.training-for-development.com/-Participatory-Science-Step-1- )

Impact-oriented Participatory Research tools

The document on Impact-oriented Participatory Research tools showed that there are several complementary building blocks to move:

from an intention to a structure;
from an idea to a project;
from a project to a fundable mechanism;
from a local dynamic to a replicable model.

These tools notably make it possible to:

clarify the problem;
identify the value created;
connect concerned audiences, partners, funders, and operators;
make projects more readable for scientific, institutional, and philanthropic partners;
avoid projects that are attractive on paper but weak in the field;
give teams a common language.

What these tools change in practice

Taken separately, each of these tools is useful. Taken together, they profoundly change the way projects are developed and managed.

They make it possible:

to distinguish what belongs to intention from what belongs to real research;
to better distribute responsibilities;
to make missing resources visible;
to anticipate blockages;
to secure operations;
to communicate better with partners;
to better convince funders;
to capitalize on lessons learned instead of starting from scratch each time.

Above all, they make it possible to professionalize without rigidifying, and to structure without stifling.

Why Participatory Research is a lever for impact

Participatory Research for Impact is valuable not only because it “gets people involved.” It is valuable because it makes it possible to achieve several objectives at the same time:

produce useful data and knowledge;
train the people concerned;
strengthen local capacities;
legitimize decisions;
create new forms of cooperation;
make projects more fundable;
improve the dissemination of results;
anchor transformations in territories.

In other words, it reduces the separation between research, action, pedagogy, and governance.

What to remember in order to move into action

For project leaders, organizations, institutions, researchers, and territories, several practical lessons clearly emerge.

First, do not remain alone. The quality of a project depends strongly on the quality of its partnerships.

Second, do not confuse facilitation, awareness-raising, and research. The three can coexist, but they do not obey the same requirements.

Third, document from the outset. A research question, partners, a protocol, an operation plan, a monitoring tool: all of this must exist early, even at a simple level.

Fourth, think from the beginning about what comes after the fieldwork: analysis, promotion, dissemination, improvement, uses of the results.

Fifth, accept the diversity of audiences and formats, but without losing scientific, educational, and institutional coherence.

Conclusion

Participatory Research for Impact opens up a particularly strong perspective for the years to come. It makes it possible to bring together worlds that still cross paths too rarely: citizens, researchers, educators, territories, funders, operators, institutions.

The webinar showed that the materials are already there: countries, projects, audiences, partners, powerful questions, structuring tools, methods, field examples.

The issue is therefore no longer only to have good ideas. The issue is to give these ideas a form that lasts over time, produces results, learns from its own operations, and can be understood equally well by citizens, scientists, local authorities, donors, and partners.

This is precisely where Impact-oriented Participatory Research gains its full strength: when it becomes at once a way of researching, a way of learning, a way of acting, and a way of sustainably transforming the links between science and society.

OSI Madagascar - Exchanges for Creation and Development

*LocalGroup Creation — 2026-02-24T20:05:33Z

Ce groupe est pour celles et ceux qui participent à la mise en œuvre de solutions, et qui, dans leur projet pour une évolution durable, désirent implanter une activité de l'ONG Objectif Sciences International sur leur région.

Sommaire

Si vous désirez intégrer l'équipe qui s'implique actuellement dans la création du Groupe Local, merci de :

Créer votre compte utilisateur sur ce site internet,
Remplir ce formulaire de proposition de votre profil à l'ONG,
Poster un message pour vous présenter, sur le forum de travail de cette page.

Etapes de Création du Groupe Local dans votre Pays

La Procédure Simplifiée et Accélérée de Création de votre Groupe Local OSI dans votre Pays est décrite de manière complète sur cette page.

Les premières étapes permettant la création d'un GROUPE LOCAL DE OSI dans votre région, sont :

1) Réunion d'un minimum de 15 acteurs et actrices, sur ce présent groupe
=> Pour ce faire, merci de poster un message sur le forum de cette page pour vous présenter, tout simplement

2) Un minimum de 3 personnes du futur Groupe Local, s'inscrivent et suivent à Paris la Formation Pédagogie de Projet Appliquée à la Recherche Participative dédiée à la réussite de l'Education et à la Résolution des Objectifs du Développement Durable (voir ce lien) (Vous pouvez suivre chacun une session différente, donc inscrivez vous individuellement sans attendre sur une autre personne obligatoirement)

3) L'organisation, dans le pays du Groupe Local, d'une session de la Formation de Niveau 1 de OSI “Pédagogie de Projet Appliquée à la Recherche Participative dédiée à la réussite de l'Education et à la Résolution des Objectifs du Développement Durable” pour tous les membres du futur Groupe Local (avec un minimum de 60 personnes réunies à l'occasion de cette formation).
=> Merci de mener vos échanges de discussion avec OSI sur cette page pour l'organisation de cette Formation sur votre région (voir fil de discussion à ce sujet)

4) Un minimum de 3 personnes du futur Groupe Local, s'inscrivent et suivent à l'ONU à Genève la Formation Initiale aux Métiers de Responsables de Programme (voir ce lien) (Vous pouvez suivre chacun une session différente, donc inscrivez vous individuellement sans attendre sur une autre personne obligatoirement)
=> Ce séminaire de travail vous permet d'établir avec les acteurs de la région de votre Groupe Local toutes les étapes de la Feuille de Route conduisant le Groupe Local vers l'implantation définitive et durable de OSI sur la région, avec le démarrage de ses activités économique (création d'emplois, projets de recherche participative pour résoudre les enjeux locaux, éducation aux sciences pour les publics ciblés tels que enfants, adultes, groupes scolaires...)

Une démarche est actuellement en cours, dans votre Pays, menées par des professionnels tels que vous, pour la création du Groupe Local de l'ONG Objectif Sciences International.

Emplois et Missions

Selon si vous cherchez un emploi ou si vous êtes prestataire, les emplois et missions proposées par ce Groupe Local de l'ONG Objectif Sciences International sont :

Education aux Sciences
Intervention dans les Ecoles
Encadrement et animation de Séjours Scientifiques et Nature
Encadrement de formation techniques
Direction de Programmes de Recherche et d'Education aux Sciences de l'ONG OSI
Direction de Programmes de Développement Participatif de l'ONG OSI au Sénégal (Représentant Commercial ou Leveur de Fonds)
Direction de Programmes de Pédagogie et Logistique du Développement Durable de l'ONG OSI

Echéances

La démarche qui a été initiée sur votre pays conduit à la création d'activité dans votre Pays, pour le public de votre pays. Cette création d'activité inclut la création d'emplois.

Celles et ceux qui désirent être impliqués dans cette démarche de création d'emploi dans votre pays doivent pouvoir suivre la Formation “St1 - Pédagogie de Projet Appliquée à la Recherche Participative dédiée à la réussite de l'Education et à la Résolution des Objectifs du Développement Durable”.

Les échéances à jour pour les prochaines étapes auxquelles vous devez participer, ou faire participer vos partenaires, employés ou étudiants, sont postées sur le fil de discussion “Prochaines échéances” sur le forum de cette page.

Liste de l'Offre OSI

La présence d'une équipe locale de l'ONG OSI dans un pays, c'est :

Une équipe de professionnels, formés en continus, autonomes, qui font de OSI ce qu'ils proposent pour OSI, dans leur pays
La création d'emploi, et de revenus, pour vous, et pour l'économie locale (de 5 à 50 emplois créés selon les pays)
Une offre de Séjours de Recherche Scientifique Participative pour les habitants de votre pays
Une offre de Formations techniques dans tous les domaines scientifique, technique, et environnementaux
Une offre de Formation pédagogiques de haut niveau, pour les membres de l'équipe OSI de votre pays, et pour votre public (écoles, universités...)
Une offre d'Interventions pédagogiques dans les établissements scolaires et universitaires de votre pays
Un ensemble de résolutions de problèmes de développement durable dans votre pays, grâce aux actions et programmes que vous mettez en place au sein du Groupe OSI de votre pays
Un programme de Colloques annuels, dans votre pays, sur les thèmes de vos activités
Vous avez accès tous les ans à la Convention annuelle internationale d'OSI qui se tient au sein de l'ONU, au Palais des Nations, à Genève.

Mentors et Formateurs

Vous êtes déjà enseignants, en poste de chercheurs, chef d'entreprise.

Pour vous, rejoindre le Groupe OSI dans votre pays, c'est nous aider à créer plus vite, et plus fort encore, les emplois sur votre pays.

Rejoignez nous en suivant, vous aussi, la formation “St1 - Pédagogie de Projet Appliquée à la Recherche Participative dédiée à la réussite de l'Education et à la Résolution des Objectifs du Développement Durable” afin que vous puissiez vous aussi être intégrés au sein du Groupe OSI de votre pays, dont VOUS aurez votre part décisionnelle sur les directions à prendre dans votre pays pour cette section locale de l'ONG OSI.

Mode opératoire

Pour pouvoir :

soutenir les création d'emploi en tant que Mentor,
ou
bénéficier d'un emploi pour vous-mêmes,

il vous faut :

vous inscrire à la formation “St1 - Pédagogie des Sciences par le Projet appliquée à la Recherche Participative pour le Développement Durable” qui a lieu dans votre pays en consultant cette page : http://www.educateur-scientifique.com/Formation-de-Niveau-1-en-Pedagogie.html à Paris ou dans votre Pays (voir détail sur le programme de la Formation ainsi que les messages postés sur le forum de travail de cette présente page)

Si vous désirez allez plus loin, et prendre une part de responsabilité dans la création du Groupe Local OSI dans votre pays, vous pouvez également :

consulter la page décrivant la procédure simplifiée de création du Groupe Local
Poster un premier message pour vous présenter, puis échanger sur les questions en cours de débats, sur le Groupe de Discussion de cette page, pour suivre toutes les avancées du projet, être au courant de ce qui se passe

Contacts

Les Responsables de la Création du Groupe OSI dans votre pays prendront contact avec vous aussi tôt que vous aurez posté un message de présentation sur le forum de cette page.

Par ailleurs, vous pouvez également vous mettre en relation avec toutes les autres personnes impliquées dans la création du Groupe OSI dans votre pays en les contactant directement depuis ce même groupe de discussion.

Vous pourrez ainsi obtenir de nombreuses informations en posant toutes les questions que vous désirez.

OSI Martinique - Echanges pour Création et Développement

Chloé LAROSE — 2025-10-09T04:14:56Z

Anyone seeking solutions, committed to sustainable development, and wants to help is welcome to join Objectif Sciences International in the work we are doing in their country.

Sommaire

If you would like to join the team working to establish a Local Group, please:

Create a User Account at,
Complete your Profile,
Post a message introducing yourself on the Forum page.

Steps to create a Local Group in your country

A quick and easy way to create an OSI Local Group in your country can be found at this page.

The first steps to creating an OSI LOCAL GROUP in your region are:

1) Bring together a minimum of 15 people to form the group
=> To do this, simply post a message, on the Forum page, introducing yourself

2) In order to form a Local Group, a minimum of 3 people must register and participate in the in Paris Participatory Research Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (see link) (Individuals may register for different sessions, there is no need to complete the training as a group.)

3) Host, in the country in which the Local Group will operate, an OSI Level 1 “Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals” Training Session for all future members of the Local Group (a minimum of 60 people must attend this training).
=> Please use this page to discuss how to organize this training in your area with OSI (see discussion thread on this subject)

4) A minimum of 3 people from the Local Group, must register and complete at the UN in Geneva the Initial Training for Program Managers (see link) (Individuals may register for different sessions, there is no need to complete the training as a group.)
=> This working seminar will allow you, along with other participants from your region, to develop a roadmap that will help your Local Group bring OSI's work to your country, this will begin with activities targeting the local economy (job creation, participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com projects to resolve local issues, science education for targeted audiences such as children, adults, school groups, etc.)

Professionals, like you, are currently helping to establish an Objectif Sciences International Local Group in your country.

Jobs and Assignments

Whether you are looking for a job or are a service provider, the Objectif Sciences International Local Group offers job and assignment opportunities, such as:

* Science education
Working with Schools
Developing and Managing Science and Nature Camps
* Technical training supervision
* Managing OSI Research Programs and Science Education
* Managing OSI Participatory Development Programs in Senegal (Sales Representative or Fundraiser)
* Managing OSI Education and Logistics Sustainable Development Programs

Deadlines

Activities will be completed in your country and will benefit your people. Jobs will be created.

Those who wish to be involved in the process of creating in-country jobs must participate in the “St1 - Participatory Research Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals” Training.

Updated deadlines for the next steps of which you, your partners, employees, or students should be aware, are posted in the “Upcoming Deadlines” discussion thread on the Forum page.

List of OSI Opportunities}

An OSI local team in a country will offer::

* An up-to-date and fully autonomous team of professionals, working on behalf of OSI, in their country
* Job creation, and income, benefiting you and the local economy (from 5 to 50 jobs will be created depending on the country)
- * Participatory Scientific Research Camps in which local people can take part
* Technical training in the scientific, technical and environmental sectors
* Advanced educational training for members of your country's OSI team and those with whom you will be assisting and working (schools, universities...)
* The opportunity to work with your country's schools and universities
* A set of resolutions regarding sustainable development problems specific to your country, drafted thanks to the actions and programs that you helped create as part of this OSI Group
* Annual conferences, taking place in your country, which address and discuss the activities in which you are participating
* Every year, you will be invited to the OSI International Annual Convention, hosted by the UN, at the Palais des Nations, in Geneva.

Mentors and Training

You are already teachers, researchers and business leaders.

For you, joining your country's OSI Local Group will mean helping us to create better local jobs in less time.

Join us for the “St1 - Participatory Research Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals” training so that you too can become part of your country's Local OSI Group and take part in making the decisions about the direction your country will take, as part of the OSI.

Working with us

To be able to:

* support job creation as a Mentor,
or
* find a job,

You must:

* register for the “St1 - Participatory Research Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals” training held in your country, by clicking: http://www.educateur-scientifique.com/Formation-de-Niveau-1-en-Pedagogie.html?lang=en in Paris or in your country (see details on the training program as well as other messages posted on the Forum page)

If you want to go further and dive deeper into the creation of an OSI Local Group in your country, you can also:

* consult the page describing the [Quick and Easy Way to Create a Local Group|Creation of a Local NGO Group>http://www.osi-ngo.org/agir-vous-memes/create-the-ngo-local-group-in-your-region?lang=en]
Introduce yourself, then join in discussions taking place in the Discussion Group, found on this page, follow the project's progress and keep up with current developments

Contact

Your country's OSI Group managers will contact you as soon as you post your introduction on the Forum page.

Additionally, you can reach out to other people involved in establishing an OSI Group in your country by contacting them directly within the discussion group.

You can get all the information you need and pose all your questions.

OSI Reunion - Exchanges for Creation and Development

Chloé LAROSE, Amandine FRUTEAU — 2025-10-02T03:53:18Z

Anyone seeking solutions, committed to sustainable development, and wants to help is welcome to join Objectif Sciences International in the work we are doing in their country.

Sommaire

If you would like to join the team working to establish a Local Group, please:

Create a User Account at,
Complete your Profile,
Post a message introducing yourself on the Forum page.

Steps to create a Local Group in your country

A quick and easy way to create an OSI Local Group in your country can be found at this page.

The first steps to creating an OSI LOCAL GROUP in your region are:

1) Bring together a minimum of 15 people to form the group
=> To do this, simply post a message, on the Forum page, introducing yourself

Professionals, like you, are currently helping to establish an Objectif Sciences International Local Group in your country.

Jobs and Assignments

Whether you are looking for a job or are a service provider, the Objectif Sciences International Local Group offers job and assignment opportunities, such as:

* Science education
Working with Schools
Developing and Managing Science and Nature Camps
* Technical training supervision
* Managing OSI Research Programs and Science Education
* Managing OSI Participatory Development Programs in Senegal (Sales Representative or Fundraiser)
* Managing OSI Education and Logistics Sustainable Development Programs

Deadlines

Activities will be completed in your country and will benefit your people. Jobs will be created.

Updated deadlines for the next steps of which you, your partners, employees, or students should be aware, are posted in the “Upcoming Deadlines” discussion thread on the Forum page.

List of OSI Opportunities}

An OSI local team in a country will offer::

* An up-to-date and fully autonomous team of professionals, working on behalf of OSI, in their country
* Job creation, and income, benefiting you and the local economy (from 5 to 50 jobs will be created depending on the country)
- * Participatory Scientific Research Camps in which local people can take part
* Technical training in the scientific, technical and environmental sectors
* Advanced educational training for members of your country's OSI team and those with whom you will be assisting and working (schools, universities...)
* The opportunity to work with your country's schools and universities
* A set of resolutions regarding sustainable development problems specific to your country, drafted thanks to the actions and programs that you helped create as part of this OSI Group
* Annual conferences, taking place in your country, which address and discuss the activities in which you are participating
* Every year, you will be invited to the OSI International Annual Convention, hosted by the UN, at the Palais des Nations, in Geneva.

Mentors and Training

You are already teachers, researchers and business leaders.

For you, joining your country's OSI Local Group will mean helping us to create better local jobs in less time.

Working with us

To be able to:

* support job creation as a Mentor,
or
* find a job,

You must:

* register for the “St1 - Participatory Research Educational Training Project dedicated to continuous learning and the successful achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals” training held in your country, by clicking: http://www.educateur-scientifique.com/Formation-de-Niveau-1-en-Pedagogie.html?lang=en in Paris or in your country (see details on the training program as well as other messages posted on the Forum page)

If you want to go further and dive deeper into the creation of an OSI Local Group in your country, you can also:

* consult the page describing the [Quick and Easy Way to Create a Local Group|Creation of a Local NGO Group>http://www.osi-ngo.org/agir-vous-memes/create-the-ngo-local-group-in-your-region?lang=en]
Introduce yourself, then join in discussions taking place in the Discussion Group, found on this page, follow the project's progress and keep up with current developments

Contact

Your country's OSI Group managers will contact you as soon as you post your introduction on the Forum page.

Additionally, you can reach out to other people involved in establishing an OSI Group in your country by contacting them directly within the discussion group.

You can get all the information you need and pose all your questions.

Formats innovants de sciences participatives pour l'étude de la biodiversité et des impacts climatiques en Suisse

Chloé LAROSE — 2025-06-01T23:02:47Z

What are the differences between Citizen Science, Participatory Science and Participatory Research?

Thomas EGLI — 2024-09-30T07:21:26Z

The terms Citizen Science, Participatory Science, and Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com are often used interchangeably, but they refer to quite different approaches to collaboration between scientists and non-scientists. Here are the main distinctions:

Citizen Science: Citizens are mainly involved in data collection, or in subcontracting data processing and analysis (photos, etc.) when AI cannot yet do this work. They are not involved in the design of the project, the experiments or the interpretation of the results.
Participatory science: Involvement of citizens or social actors at different levels of the project, from data collection to project design, including carrying out experiments.
Participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com : Deeper or even total collaboration, where citizens or stakeholders participate in all stages of the research process.

Also check out the training on the design and facilitation of a Participatory Science project

These approaches share a common desire to include non-scientists in the production of knowledge, but vary according to the degree of involvement and the final objective of the research.

Citizen sciences
Citizen science refers specifically to raising the awareness of non-scientific citizens through scientific research projects that are open to them. The term emphasises the role of citizens as key players in collecting data, monitoring ecosystems, observing scientific phenomena and analysing results when this is long and tedious. Citizens make a direct contribution to the production of knowledge, often outside traditional academic frameworks.

Key features:

Participation is often geared towards data collection and observation (e.g. bird counts, star tracking, pollution measurements).
Projects are often initiated by scientists, but citizens play a massive role in collecting or processing data.
Examples include bird counting projects and pollinator insect monitoring projects.

Participatory sciences
Participatory science encompasses a broader spectrum of collaboration between researchers and the general public. The term places the emphasis on active participation through practice, with a prior build-up of skills, which can take place at different levels: from data collection to interpretation, to the actual design of the scientific project, including carrying out the experiments. Participatory science generally includes citizens as well as other social players (associations, local authorities, companies).

Key features:

Participation can take place at various stages of the project: definition of the research questions, data collection, analysis of data beyond simple data analysis, dissemination of results.
Projects are often interdisciplinary and may involve citizens, NGOs, public institutions, etc.
Examples: Air quality projects where citizens help to measure local pollution while working with scientists to interpret the results.

Participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com
Participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com refers to a framework in which citizens, or other stakeholders, are actively and collaboratively involved in all stages of the research process, including the definition of the research question, design, methodology, collection of data or scientific experiments, analysis, and dissemination of results. This model is often used in social justice or action research contexts, where the results are co-created by the researchers and the communities concerned, and where the research has a social transformation objective - Community Based Participatory Research. However, it has also developed in the form of Impact Based Participatory Research since its origins as a Science Club in 1992, and then in 2005 on Scientific Stays (school trips and scientific discovery classes, solidarity science holidays, holiday camps, etc.) in research projects where non-scientists are involved as researchers in fundamental or applied research subjects that do not directly concern them.

Key features:

Citizens are not just data collectors, but co-designers of the project, influencing the methodology and objectives.
Citizens are involved at absolutely every stage of the research, regardless of age (children, teenagers, adults).
The aim is often to solve practical, societal or local problems.
Examples: Action research projects where local communities participate in defining solutions to improve their living environment (e.g. management of natural resources, food autonomy and greening of buildings in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, increasing biodiversity in an island lagoon) or Fundamental research projects (detection of exoplanets, dinosaur research, fundamental physics, chemistry and water treatment, etc.).

Potential future developments

Many potential developments are now beginning to appear on the horizon, due to the growing increase in research conducted in these three formats and the exponential number of publications resulting from these citizen formats and signed by these citizens themselves, authors of articles published in peer-reviewed journals.

While the operational work consists of improving the operating methods, the pedagogical progression, and the adequacy of the material resources enabling such participative research projects, new ambitions are now becoming realistic. These include, for example, developing the field of Citizen Research in the same way as Public Research and Private Research, in both Fundamental Research and Applied Research.

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of Participatory Science Projects

In collaboration between Objectif Sciences International and Step and Go, this training is specifically dedicated to the techniques for creating and designing a Participatory Science project for Sustainable Development, as well as the techniques for leading and facilitating a Participatory Science project using a Project-Based Learning approach:

https://training-for-development.com/-Sciences-Participatives-Step-1-?lang=en

Choose the 3-day residential version or the 4-day non-residential option, in the Alps, Paris, Nice, New York... or request a date specifically dedicated for your team.

Possible Implementation Formats for Research within a Participatory Research Project

Thomas EGLI, Maxime ROUMAZEILLES — 2024-09-10T10:11:38Z

Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com is a specific format of Research.

When it is sufficiently supported by both the scientific community and one or more citizen communities involved in the Research, it would represent a significant missed opportunity for Science if this format only served to propose the same projects, following the same epistemological approaches or experimental methods as Academic Research.

In this context, what approaches and proposals are unique to Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com ?

Also check out the training on the design and facilitation of a Participatory Science project

Sommaire

Epistemological Approaches

Scientific Approaches

What Research is Possible in Citizen Science?

Private Research

Public Research

Citizen Research

Conclusion

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of (...)

Translate

To properly focus on the subject of this article, it is useful to first situate the role of Real Research across various formats of Science with and for Society.

Citizen Science Participatory Science Participatory Research with Impact Community-Based Participatory Research

General Format Contributions of non-scientific citizens to data collection or processing Non-scientists participating in several stages, including experiments Non-scientists involved in all stages of research not directly related to their personal interests Involves individuals in research addressing issues specific to their community

History Emerged with the rise of technology and the Internet, facilitating citizen participation Evolution of citizen science towards broader participant engagement More recent form focusing on varied scientific issues Originates from social justice movements and local initiatives

Drivers Citizens and scientists, with strong scientist initiative Collaboration between scientists and non-scientists Researchers, educators, NGOs, and diverse publics Local communities, associations, and researchers

Goals Large-scale data collection, enhancing scientific knowledge Citizen engagement in research, increasing scientific transparency Advancing knowledge in strategic areas not directly connected to participants Solving community-specific problems, enhancing self-determination

Common Fields Astronomy, environment, biodiversity Biology, ecology, social sciences Energy, environment, sustainable development Public health, local development, sociology

Examples Galaxy Zoo, eBird... Local wildlife observations, collaborative social studies Projects on climate change impacts, medical research Participatory action research on health issues, community agriculture

Epistemological Approaches

Epistemological approaches are theoretical frameworks that guide how researchers approach their research and interpret results. Currently, different epistemological approaches are used in scientific research, each with its advantages and limitations.

The main epistemological approaches implemented in traditional research include, though not exhaustively:

Positivism: This epistemological approach considers that reality can be objectively observed and measured. However, it may overlook subjective and complex aspects of reality, as well as the interactions between the researcher and the subject of study.
Social Constructivism: This epistemological approach emphasizes the social construction of reality and the role of individual and collective interpretations. However, it can be criticized for excessive relativity, placing less importance on objective facts and empirical research.
Postmodernism: This epistemological approach questions grand narratives and absolute truths. However, its radical skepticism can make it difficult to reach consensus and produce reliable knowledge.

Epistemological approaches in Science regularly evolve, as scientific research is a vast and diverse field, and each researcher may have their own approach and epistemological preferences.

However, it is possible to identify certain epistemological approaches that are less commonly used in contemporary scientific research. For instance, radical epistemological relativism, which holds that each perspective is equally valid and that there is no absolute truth, is generally less favored due to its implications for the validity of scientific conclusions.

Furthermore, some more philosophical epistemological approaches, such as mysticism or intuitionism, are generally considered incompatible with the fundamental principles of the scientific method, which is based on observation, experimentation, and empirical rigor.

At present, however, several epistemological approaches could be particularly beneficial in the context of research conducted in a participatory manner with non-scientific citizens:

Empiricism: This approach emphasizes observation and experience. By encouraging citizens to observe and experiment on their own, research can be enriched by including different viewpoints and gathering empirical data from various sources.
Social Constructivism: This approach emphasizes the social construction of reality and the role of shared knowledge. By encouraging the participation of non-scientific citizens in research, their awareness can be raised regarding how scientific knowledge is constructed and used, thus fostering critical reflection on this knowledge.
Pragmatism: This approach emphasizes the practical application of knowledge. By working participatorily with non-scientific citizens, research can address issues relevant to society and result in practical solutions that meet citizens' needs.

It is entirely possible that the still-young format of Participatory Research will give rise to new epistemological approaches that are yet unknown.

It is important to note that all epistemological approaches have their strengths and limitations, and it is often beneficial to combine different approaches in participatory research. The goal is to create an inclusive space where scientific knowledge and citizens' practical knowledge can mutually enrich one another.

Scientific Approaches

Scientific approaches are methods used to acquire knowledge in a rigorous and systematic manner. They vary based on disciplines, research questions, and methodological approaches. Here are the main forms of scientific approaches:

Hypothetico-Deductive Approach
This is one of the most classic approaches. It follows these steps:
Observation: A phenomenon is observed.
Hypothesis formulation: Based on the observation, a hypothesis is formulated.
Experimentation: The hypothesis is tested through experiments or studies.
Deduction: If the experiment confirms the hypothesis, a general law or principle is deduced.
Verification/Falsification: The law or theory can be reviewed based on new observations.
Inductive Approach
This approach is based on the accumulation of observations, leading to the formulation of general laws or theories:
Repeated observation: A certain phenomenon is observed multiple times under various conditions.
Generalization: From these observations, laws or principles are formulated that appear to apply broadly.
Validation: These generalities are tested in other contexts to ensure their validity.
Experimental Approach
This approach involves manipulating variables to understand their effect on a given phenomenon:
Hypothesis formulation: Based on a research question.
Experiment planning: Experimental conditions are carefully defined, with an independent variable (manipulated) and a dependent variable (measured).
Experimentation: The experiment is conducted, and data is collected.
Analysis and conclusion: The results are analyzed to determine whether the hypothesis is confirmed or refuted.
Descriptive Approach
This approach aims to simply describe a phenomenon without necessarily seeking to explain its causes:
Observation: A phenomenon is observed in its natural environment.
Data collection: Observations are meticulously recorded and described.
Analysis: The data is analyzed to identify trends or recurring characteristics.
Historical Approach
Primarily used in the humanities, this approach involves reconstructing and analyzing past events:
Source research: Documents, testimonies, archaeological artifacts, etc.
Interpretation: Sources are analyzed and interpreted to understand the causes and consequences of events.
Synthesis: Events are placed in a broader historical context to draw lessons or identify regularities.
Modeling Approach
This approach is particularly used in exact and natural sciences (physics, biology, economics, etc.):
Model construction: A theoretical or mathematical model representing a complex phenomenon is developed.
Simulation: The model is tested through simulations to observe its behavior.
Model revision: Based on results, the model is adjusted to better reflect reality.
Comparative Approach
This approach involves comparing different cases or phenomena to identify differences or similarities:
Selection of comparison objects: Different groups, events, or phenomena are selected.
Comparative analysis: The compared elements are studied to identify common patterns or significant differences.
Conclusion: Conclusions are drawn based on observed similarities or differences.

These various approaches are often complementary. In practice, a scientist may use several of these methods within a single study to address complex questions.

What Research is Possible in Citizen Science?

The question of who asks which questions to know what in scientific research is crucial, as it influences not only the choice of subjects studied but also how results are interpreted and applied. This context helps to understand the specificities and potentials offered by three types of research: Private Research, Public Research, and finally Citizen Research. Each has unique characteristics and offers unique opportunities depending on who leads it, with what goals, and what questions are posed.

Private Research

Private Research is conducted by companies or non-public organizations to develop products, services, or solutions for a specific market. It is often driven by economic interests or commercial goals.

Potential:
Rapid Innovation: Private research is often focused on concrete results, which can accelerate the development of innovative technologies or products. It benefits from substantial funding and more flexible organization, allowing for responsiveness to market needs.
Pragmatic, Results-Oriented Approach: Due to the importance of financial returns, private research projects are often highly targeted on practical questions. This leads to innovations directly beneficial to society, such as medications, technologies, or environmental solutions.
Public-Private Partnerships: Increasingly, collaborations between the private sector and public institutions allow for resource and skill-sharing. This fosters synergies that drive research in strategic fields.
Limitations:
Profit Orientation: Private research tends to prioritize topics likely to generate short- or medium-term profits, sometimes at the expense of fundamental research or non-profitable but socially essential fields, such as biodiversity or social inequality.
Potential Bias: Research questions may be influenced by commercial interests. This can sometimes lead to conflicts of interest or limit the transparency of results, particularly if findings are patented or protected as trade secrets.
Exclusivity of Discoveries: Unlike public research, private research findings are not always shared freely, limiting their global impact.
Public Research

Public Research is conducted by government-funded institutions (universities, public research centers) and aims at the common good rather than immediate economic profitability.

Potential:
Fundamental Knowledge: Public research is essential for the development of fundamental knowledge, often without immediate application but with long-term implications (e.g., theoretical physics, basic biology, mathematics).
Public Interest: Unlike private research, public research addresses questions that benefit society as a whole, such as public health, education, or the environment. It is less influenced by commercial imperatives, allowing for greater diversity in topics addressed.
Transparency and Results Sharing: Public research results are generally accessible to the public through open scientific publications, allowing other researchers and the public to benefit from these advances.
Long-Term Project Support: Governments can support long-term research projects, even without immediate results. This stability is crucial for large-scale projects like research in astrophysics, climatology, or medicine.
Limitations:
Limited Funding: Public research depends on government budgets, which can fluctuate according to political priorities. This can limit certain disciplines' ability to fully develop.
Process Slowdown: Public institutions may be more bureaucratic, sometimes slowing down project implementation and results exploitation.
Lack of Immediate Pragmatism: Some public research may be overly theoretical and lack immediate or practical applications to address urgent societal needs.
Citizen Research

Citizen Research is a participatory approach that engages non-professional citizens in scientific projects at all stages of the research process, including the scientific question being posed. This type of research offers unique advantages:

Potential:
Diversification of Research Questions: Citizen Research allows addressing questions not always prioritized by professional researchers or public/private institutions. Citizens, directly involved in daily life, can raise local, social, or environmental issues often overlooked.
Science Ownership and Democratization: Involving citizens in knowledge production can bridge the gap between the scientific community and civil society. It makes science more accessible, enhances transparency, and can build greater trust in research.
Data Richness: Citizens can be a major data-collection force, especially in studies requiring extensive geographical or temporal coverage. For example, in environmental research, citizen networks can collect information on biodiversity or weather conditions.
Social Innovation: Citizen research can foster practical and innovative solutions to social problems, as citizens are directly affected by the issues being studied. This approach facilitates the emergence of ideas that might not have been addressed by traditional researchers.
Independence: Unlike private research, citizen research is often less influenced by financial or commercial interests. This allows for freer, sometimes more critical, questions regarding existing economic or social models.
Limitations:
Identifying and securing funding and resources that Citizen Research could benefit from on par with private or public research (Project calls) or specifically (Impact Philanthropy, Blended Finance, Crowdfunding, Donation-Action...).
Ensuring scientific rigor and result reproducibility by building capacity among participating citizens alongside members of the Scientific Community.
Supervision and training of citizens, before, during, and after projects, are necessary to prevent biases in data collection.

The potentials of Citizen Research lie in its ability to address public interest questions often neglected by other types of research and democratize science by bringing citizens closer to knowledge production processes. Private Research, on the other hand, provides rapid and targeted innovation but with economic bias risks. Public Research focuses on general and fundamental interest questions, with open knowledge access but sometimes faces budgetary, bureaucratic, or even political or strategic limitations.

Each of these forms of research thus plays a complementary role in knowledge production, and collaboration between these different spheres can maximize societal benefits.

Conclusion

The format of Participatory Research is still young, and it is noted that scientific supervisors and project facilitators tend to want to implement Participatory Research projects under their responsibility by adopting commonly recognized approaches within traditional scientific research projects.

However, this approach represents a significant missed opportunity regarding the added value that Participatory Research offers. Failing to implement the alternative approaches and epistemological stances allowed by Participatory Research not only limits its benefits, but traditional research itself also looks to Participatory Research to address areas of action that it cannot cover, thus expanding possibilities for data collection, methods, and cross-referencing frameworks.

In this context, it is expected that Participatory Research project supervisors will explore new forms of research implementation, new project possibilities, or even new epistemological stances. In anticipation of such innovative frameworks, supervisors are encouraged to deploy within Participatory Research the epistemological stances and scientific approaches that exist but are not currently undertaken by traditional research.

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of Participatory Science Projects

In collaboration between Objectif Sciences International and Step and Go, this training is specifically dedicated to the techniques for creating and designing a Participatory Science project for Sustainable Development, as well as the techniques for leading and facilitating a Participatory Science project using a Project-Based Learning approach:

https://training-for-development.com/-Sciences-Participatives-Step-1-?lang=en

Choose the 3-day residential version or the 4-day non-residential option, in the Alps, Paris, Nice, New York... or request a date specifically dedicated for your team.

Distinguishing truly Participatory Research from Research that involves non-scientists without genuine participation

Thomas EGLI — 2024-04-16T13:07:00Z

It is essential to distinguish between, on one hand, scientific research that involves non-scientists merely as sources of information, and, on the other hand, truly participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com in which these individuals are integrated into every stage of the process as researchers.

This distinction is based on fundamental differences in goals, approaches, responsibilities, power dynamics, values, and impact, leading to an entirely different practical application.

Here is a more detailed explanation of these two types of research and their importance.

Also check out the training on the design and facilitation of a Participatory Science project

Sommaire

Objectives

Approaches

Responsibilities

Power

Values and Ethics

Impact

Conclusion

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of (...)

[!glossary]
[!summary]

It is possible to distinguish several concrete forms of implementing Science with and for Society.

<- Scientific Outreach (CCSTI)
->

- <- Science Education
->

- - <- Citizen Science
->

- - - <- Participatory Science
->

- - - - Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com

However, if we focus solely on conducting research that is genuinely participatory (last row of the table), not only must the Research be real and address a genuine scientific question (otherwise, the project may be participatory but not considered Research), but it is equally problematic if the project's organization is not truly participatory.

This article addresses this latter point and presents a series of criteria to distinguish, on the one hand, genuine research that involves non-scientists but is NOT Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com and, on the other hand, genuine research that involves non-scientists through sufficient roles and methods to qualify as truly Participatory Research.

(You can also refer to the article What milestones help structure a Participatory Research project?, which will help you organize your project to make it viable in these terms.)

The following distinctions thus start from the case of genuine scientific research and focus solely on participation levels.

Objectives

In scientific research involving non-scientists as sources of information or feedback and solutions testing, the primary objective is usually to collect data or information from these individuals to feed into a scientific study. Although non-scientists appear throughout the research project description, they play a passive role by providing data without being involved in study design, data analysis, hypothesis testing, or significant decision-making.

In contrast, the objective in participatory research is to create an equitable partnership between researchers and non-scientists, allowing the latter to actively participate in defining research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating results. The goal is to empower non-scientists and build their capacity to engage in a collaborative research process.

Approaches

In traditional scientific research, researchers typically define the research framework, methods, and objectives, while non-scientists are asked to provide information or data as needed. This approach is often referred to as “researcher-led science.”

Participatory research, on the other hand, relies on a “community-led” or “participant-led” approach. Non-scientists are actively involved in research design, data collection and interpretation, and decision-making. Researchers act as facilitators rather than directors.

Responsibilities

In traditional research, researchers bear most of the responsibility for the quality and validity of results. Non-scientists are considered more as informants or testers.

In participatory research, responsibility is shared between researchers and non-scientists. Non-scientists are co-responsible for the design, implementation, and interpretation of the research. This approach promotes greater transparency and mutual accountability.

Power

In traditional research, researchers hold decision-making power regarding the selection of research questions, methods, and result dissemination. Non-scientists play a subordinate role.

Participatory research seeks to redistribute power by recognizing that non-scientists have valuable expertise and a deep understanding of their own reality. Decisions are made jointly, creating a more equitable process.

Values and Ethics

Traditional scientific research is sometimes criticized for lacking sensitivity to the needs and concerns of the communities studied, raising ethical questions.

Participatory research is founded on principles of equity, respect, justice, and partnership. It acknowledges the intrinsic value of local knowledge and non-scientists' expertise. However, this approach alone does not automatically render Research participatory, as a traditional research approach that respects the research subjects would still not be participatory. For this, one must refer to the previously outlined criteria.

Impact

Traditional research can sometimes be perceived as imposed from the outside, with potentially limited impact on beneficiaries.

Participatory research has the potential to make a more significant impact on the communities involved, as it aims to address their needs and strengthen their capacity to engage in the research process, with solutions originating from them. Additionally, it offers substantial potential for learning and education, as this type of research allows non-scientists to engage in Community-Based Learning.

Conclusion

In summary, it is essential not to confuse traditional scientific research that involves non-scientists as sources of information with truly participatory research where these individuals are active partners.

Participatory research aims to create equitable partnerships, redistribute power, value local expertise, and positively impact the communities involved. It is based on values of equity, respect, and justice, and offers significant potential for enhancing research and its outcomes.

To further pursue this direction, one could, for example, participate in the Citizen Committees and Strategic Committees of Participatory Research or Citizen Science Projects led by the NGO Objectif Sciences International or other pioneering organizations. Always make sure to seek information as far in advance as possible to be able to attend these conferences or meetings. In practice, as this logic advances, committee meetings in certain sectors naturally aim to involve non-scientists as well as scientists from other fields, allowing anyone in any role (researcher, local official, NGO facilitator, UN body employee, government member...) to access other practice models to test—and ultimately to innovate on these themselves.

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of Participatory Science Projects

In collaboration between Objectif Sciences International and Step and Go, this training is specifically dedicated to the techniques for creating and designing a Participatory Science project for Sustainable Development, as well as the techniques for leading and facilitating a Participatory Science project using a Project-Based Learning approach:

https://training-for-development.com/-Sciences-Participatives-Step-1-?lang=en

Choose the 3-day residential version or the 4-day non-residential option, in the Alps, Paris, Nice, New York... or request a date specifically dedicated for your team.

What forms of dissemination exist for scientific research results?

Thomas EGLI — 2024-04-15T09:44:00Z

Beyond the classic and essential publication of scientific articles in journals—a format that presents research results, as well as study limitations and methodological details within the state of the art reviewed by other members of the research community—there are several other ways to disseminate scientific research findings. Here are some of these forms, and feel free to add more by interacting on this page.

Also check out the training on the design and facilitation of a Participatory Science project

Sommaire

Oral Presentations at Conferences

Scientific Posters

Theses and Dissertations

Patent Filings

Industry Collaborations

Publications in Popular Magazines

Educational Materials Production

Public Lectures and Workshops

Creation of Software or Tools

International Collaborations

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of (...)

Oral Presentations at Conferences

Presenting research results at scientific conferences allows researchers to share discoveries with the scientific community, gather feedback, and encourage collaborations.

Scientific Posters

Posters are often used at conferences to visually present research findings, providing an opportunity to interact with other researchers and discuss the work in detail.

Theses and Dissertations

Research results can be included in doctoral theses, master's dissertations, or other academic works, thereby contributing to the training of new researchers.

Patent Filings

If the research has led to innovative discoveries with practical application potential, patent filing can be an option to protect intellectual property and create value by safeguarding its use and authorship. Just as non-scientists involved in participatory research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com may co-author scientific articles, they can also hold rights to a patent. An association, NGO, or foundation may hold and represent such patents to protect these individuals' rights, within the structure of a trust or similar entity.

Industry Collaborations

Collaborating with companies can facilitate the transfer of research results into concrete industrial applications.

Publications in Popular Magazines

Adapting research findings for a broader audience by publishing in magazines, scientific blogs, or other popular media helps raise public awareness and share knowledge.

Educational Materials Production

Research results can be used to develop educational materials, online courses, manuals, etc., contributing to education and training for those impacted by the research (such as finance professionals, farmers, parents, depending on the field of study).

Public Lectures and Workshops

Organizing public lectures, workshops, or seminars enables researchers to share their findings with a broader audience, including non-specialists.

Creation of Software or Tools

If research led to the development of software, tools, or applications, making these products available can serve as a form of dissemination.

International Collaborations

Collaborating with researchers from other countries can help disseminate results on an international scale and enhance visibility.

These various forms of dissemination help maximize research impact by making it accessible to diverse audiences and promoting its application in a range of contexts.

A Training on the Design and Facilitation of Participatory Science Projects

In collaboration between Objectif Sciences International and Step and Go, this training is specifically dedicated to the techniques for creating and designing a Participatory Science project for Sustainable Development, as well as the techniques for leading and facilitating a Participatory Science project using a Project-Based Learning approach:

https://training-for-development.com/-Sciences-Participatives-Step-1-?lang=en

Choose the 3-day residential version or the 4-day non-residential option, in the Alps, Paris, Nice, New York... or request a date specifically dedicated for your team.

What milestones help structure a Participatory Research project?

Thomas EGLI — 2023-11-10T13:32:46Z

[!glossary]
In the realm of Science and research projects connected with society, there are many levels of citizen involvement, regardless of age. This can gradually increase from scientific outreach to science mediation, followed by citizen science, crowdsourcing, and even up to the involvement level of participatory science. Beyond this, citizens can be fully involved in all stages of research, reaching the level of Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com . (For more on this topic, see the article Distinguishing truly Participatory Research from Research that involves non-scientists without genuine participation).

Also check out the training on the design and facilitation of a Participatory Science project

In the specific case of a Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com project, non-scientists' involvement levels cannot be partial.

On this page, we find several milestones to help define and outline a Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com project.

Favor a newly defined research project designed natively in a participatory format, rather than trying to make an existing project participatory. Of course, a new project can be defined within the scope of ongoing research.
Establish a solid State of the Art. If necessary, consider separating a very broad multidisciplinary project into several thematic projects, each led specifically, to simplify project understanding and improve acceptance by the relevant disciplinary community. In any case, for a project to be viable, it must be within the scope of the scientific disciplines mastered by the involved research partners, even if this requires scaling down the scope or bringing in an additional research partner.
Limit the research project to existing possibilities. Expanding to other possibilities is part of a developmental phase prior to the research project itself.
Always prioritize using common terms when they exist, rather than technical terms. Avoid jargon whenever possible.
Demonstrate a genuine co-construction approach to the Research. When presenting the partnership stakeholders, present the research and civil society organizations at the same level and in a similar format.
Specify the exact details of the non-scientific participants who are engaged as participant-researchers. Always delve deeply into different layers of society, not limiting involvement to group representatives but actively recruiting individual citizens. Clearly differentiate the composition of the General Public from the participating public.
Involved citizens do not necessarily have to be the final beneficiaries of the research.
Impact Participatory Research: For instance, when a citizen-researcher should avoid being an involved observer to maintain an independent research role and reduce potential biases, or when observing individuals (anthropology, psychology) or when the research concerns a site (national park, marine area, mountains) visited by citizens from elsewhere (other parts of the country, foreign volunteers), these are examples where the citizen-researcher may not be directly impacted by the research or the immediate beneficiary of results (Extra Community Based Research) but is engaged in an impact-focused project (Good Deed – Impact Participatory Research Project).
Community-Based Participatory Research: On the other hand, if the citizen-researcher conducts research on issues that affect them or benefits them or their community, this Participatory Research is considered community-focused (Community-Based Research – Community-Based Learning).
Do not confuse the participatory dimension with outreach. For example, the dissemination and promotion of data from the research is not directed at the participating public since they are already co-authors of this data. In this example, participants in a participatory setting are therefore co-authors of dissemination and promotion, which is aimed at an even broader audience.
Distribute tasks equitably between the Research Organization and the Civil Society Organization so that the project is balanced, complementary, and mutually beneficial (i.e., without additional effort required from each side to contribute to defining and conducting research and engaging citizens).
List the various steps in the Research process (deliverables, work packages) and specify the role of involved non-scientists and how they are involved at each step. A good approach is to separate the designation of the deliverable, the role of non-scientists, and the role of scientists.
Include University stakeholders (doctoral students) to introduce research findings to the broader scientific community beyond the project itself / also connect non-scientists with the University in addition to connecting them with Research.
Funding cannot exclusively fund the research organization; otherwise, the project is clearly not Participatory. Achieving 50% funding for civil society organizations is a prerequisite for a truly Participatory Research project, with the requirement to verify that non-scientists are genuinely involved at every stage of the research and in what manner (see above).
Data production and dissemination must meet both pure research standards and outreach frameworks, covering both Research and Participation fields.
The budget should be coherent and detailed. Organizing it around participatory activities and including research-related elements is often the most effective approach.
A Training on the Design and Facilitation of Participatory Science Projects

In collaboration between Objectif Sciences International and Step and Go, this training is specifically dedicated to the techniques for creating and designing a Participatory Science project for Sustainable Development, as well as the techniques for leading and facilitating a Participatory Science project using a Project-Based Learning approach:

https://training-for-development.com/-Sciences-Participatives-Step-1-?lang=en

Choose the 3-day residential version or the 4-day non-residential option, in the Alps, Paris, Nice, New York... or request a date specifically dedicated for your team.

	Citizen Science	Participatory Science	Participatory Research with Impact	Community-Based Participatory Research
General Format	Contributions of non-scientific citizens to data collection or processing	Non-scientists participating in several stages, including experiments	Non-scientists involved in all stages of research not directly related to their personal interests	Involves individuals in research addressing issues specific to their community
History	Emerged with the rise of technology and the Internet, facilitating citizen participation	Evolution of citizen science towards broader participant engagement	More recent form focusing on varied scientific issues	Originates from social justice movements and local initiatives
Drivers	Citizens and scientists, with strong scientist initiative	Collaboration between scientists and non-scientists	Researchers, educators, NGOs, and diverse publics	Local communities, associations, and researchers
Goals	Large-scale data collection, enhancing scientific knowledge	Citizen engagement in research, increasing scientific transparency	Advancing knowledge in strategic areas not directly connected to participants	Solving community-specific problems, enhancing self-determination
Common Fields	Astronomy, environment, biodiversity	Biology, ecology, social sciences	Energy, environment, sustainable development	Public health, local development, sociology
Examples	Galaxy Zoo, eBird...	Local wildlife observations, collaborative social studies	Projects on climate change impacts, medical research	Participatory action research on health issues, community agriculture

<-	Scientific Outreach (CCSTI)				->
-	<-		Science Education		->
-	-	<-		Citizen Science		->
-	-	-		<-	Participatory Science	->
-	-	-	-			Participatory Research Participatory Research see : http://www.voyages-scientifiques.com