Citizen science and the opportunity to innovate scientific communication: an empirical research

Public participation in the context of science and technology is predominantly driven by citizen empowerment and democratic participation, as indicated by Bucchi in 2006, as well as the need to address techno-scientific controversies. In accordance with these premises, numerous scholars are progressively distancing themselves from the mere dissemination of knowledge through traditional media, opting instead for innovative approaches such as Citizen Science. The latter is configured as a practice that actively involves the public in scientific research, representing a significant resource to address not only environmental, social and economic issues, but also to enrich scientific communication. Citizen Science is considered a vehicle through which scientific knowledge is collaboratively constructed, challenging the usual expert hierarchies. In this perspective, scientific communication becomes a negotiated process between participating scientists and citizens. In light of these assumptions, the aim of this research is to provoke reflection on the contribution of Citizen Science to science communication. What are the main characteristics of the communication strategies adopted by experts in Citizen Science projects? How are relations between experts and non-experts characterised by such strategies? To answer these questions, qualitative research techniques will be employed, aimed at obtaining results that can be considered from a sociological point of view.