Citizen-enhanced Open Science: A New Vision for Scientific Research in the Balkans
Citizen-enhanced Open Science (CeOS) is a new approach to scientific research that involves the public at all stages of the research process, from planning and design to data collection and analysis.
CeOS rests on the intersection between Open Science and Citizen Science, two related but distinct concepts.
It has the potential to revolutionize scientific research, making it more transparent, accountable, and inclusive.
These activities involve bringing people together to use technology to solve problems, develop new knowledge, and create innovative products and services.
Example activities include hackathons, datathons, service jams, knowledge cafes, fablabs, game labs, and innovation sprints.
CeOS is particularly well-suited to the Balkans, a region with a rich history of public engagement in science.
The recently published Roadmap for CeOS in the Balkans highlights the need for knowledge exchange, trust-building, and collaboration to support the use of Citizen Science in the region. It also aims to identify opportunities for public involvement in Open Science through university libraries.
CeOS benefits
CeOS offers a number of benefits for the Western Balkans. It can help to:
- dispel the myth that science is an elitist activity by giving the public a voice in the research process.
- improve the quality of scientific research by bringing new perspectives and ideas to the table.
- boost innovation by creating new opportunities for collaboration between researchers and the public.
- promote science education by engaging young people in scientific research at an early age.
The Balkans is already at the forefront of CeOS development.
With continued investment and support, CeOS has the potential to make a significant contribution to scientific research and innovation in the region.
CeOS practices in the Western Balkans
There are several interesting initiatives across the region aimed at bringing science closer to the citizens.
The "Nauka za Site" (Science for All) citizen science portal in North Macedonia has engaged over 10,000 citizens in scientific research projects, including projects on biodiversity, air quality, and climate change.
In Serbia, the "Festival Nauke" (Science Festival) is a popular annual event that attracts over 100,000 visitors. The event features interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and workshops on a variety of scientific topics.
The Nauka u Mojoj Školi (Science in My School) program in Montenegro brings scientists into schools across the economy to teach students about science and engage them in scientific research projects.
These are just a few examples of the many CeOS initiatives that are underway in the region.
CeOS is a growing movement with the potential to transform scientific research in the Western Balkans.