Bridging the Gap Between Lab and Life: Exploring Student Perceptions of Community-Based Citizen Science in Bio-Conservation Education
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61987/edulearn.v1i1.3Keywords:
Citizen Science, Student Perception, Environmental Education, Experiential LearningAbstract
This study aims to explore students’ perceptions of community-based citizen science in bio-conservation education and how such experiences bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-life environmental engagement. A qualitative ethnographic approach was employed to capture students’ lived experiences through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that participation in citizen science enhances students’ conceptual understanding, environmental awareness, and sense of responsibility toward conservation. Students perceive these activities as meaningful when they are able to connect classroom knowledge with authentic field experiences. However, variations in engagement were observed, indicating that the effectiveness of citizen science depends on its implementation and relevance to students’ learning contexts. The study implies that integrating community-based and experiential learning approaches into science education can foster deeper engagement and promote environmentally responsible behavior. It highlights the importance of designing student-centered and contextually relevant learning environments that emphasize collaboration, real-world application, and reflective practice.
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