Abstract: Involving non-experts can significantly enhance the efficacy of research programmes monitoring environmental and societal changes brought about by the climate change. In addition to generating micro-level socio-environmental data from large geographical areas over extended periods to support evidence-based decision-making, such participatory initiatives (citizen science) could also aid in the dissemination of scientific information to help communities affected by climate change cope with its impacts and familiarize public with the methodologies of scientific knowledge production.
Given the need for constant monitoring of coastal areas vulnerable to climate change, the ‘student-scientist’ initiative aims to generate local environmental and social data by building a network of schools in these regions. The research and science communication activities conducted by the network of schools are coordinated by the colleges under the guidance of the scientific community. Non-governmental organisations working in the coastal regions are also linked to the network comprising of schools and colleges to ensure public support and smooth conduction of the student led field activities. Student-scientist will help bridge institutions with shared interests in climate change mitigation, promote collaborative knowledge production, expose the younger generation to methodologies for systematically studying their environment and society, and disseminate vital scientific information on climate change and mitigation across different strata of coastal society.
This talk will share insights gained from establishing a student-scientist network to monitor the impact of climate change on the western coast of India.
About the speaker: V.V. Binoy is the In-Charge of Science Communication Programme at NIAS. A cognitive scientist by training, his research focuses on the science of science communication and the conservation of megafishes (mahseers) and subterranean fishes. His team studies science communication ecosystems through the lens of behavioural science, with the goal of developing effective strategies for science dissemination, disaster risk communication, managing public perceptions of science and emerging technologies, improving science education, and fostering scientific temper in multicultural societies.