Citizen science: how high school students can provide scientifically sound data in biogeochemical experiments

Citizen science has proved acutely useful in collecting vast amounts of environmental data at large spatial and temporal scales. However, evidence on successful experimental approaches with citizen scientist involvement is still scarce. We demonstrate that collaborations with high school students in biogeochemical experiments may generate robust and reliable data for scientific analyses. Within an Austrian research-education-cooperation dealing with landuse effects on stream processes, we performed laboratory experiments on P adsorption capacities of stream sediments together with high school students. The students were involved in every step of the procedure, from the planning of the study design to the interpretation of the results. Data quality was checked via comparisons of coefficients of variation among replicates and R-2 values of adsorption curves performed by students and scientists. Data generated by students did not differ significantly from those of professionals regarding both absolute values and variability among replicates. Based on our experiences, we discuss preconditions, restrictions, and advantages of collaborating with high school students in scientific laboratory experiments.