Who wants to be a citizen scientist? Identifying the potential of citizen science and target segments in Switzerland

• DOI: 10.1177/0963662519852020
• Publication Date: 2019-06-06T12:13:23Z
• Authors: Tobias Füchslin; Mike S. Schäfer; Julia Metag
• Keywords: Citizen Science; Scientific Literacy

Driven by the proliferation of digital media, citizen science - involvement non-scientists in scientific research represents one most important recent developments communication as it brings and public closer together. So far, however, projects have mostly attracted people that are highly educated, male already very positive attitudes towards science. Based on nationally representative survey data (N = 1051), our study explores potential Switzerland. Using regression analysis, we show significant antecedents respondents' interest participating but gender education not. In addition, latent class analysis identifies five segments, representing over one-third Swiss population, who interested could potentially be engaged: 'Free-Timers', 'Senior Sciencephiles', 'Young 'Intrigued Adolescents' 'Fully Employed Parents'. Additional description suggests previously overlooked segments best addressed online via YouTube or offline zoos botanical gardens. Overall, science's is far higher than previous were able to realize.