How and When to Involve Crowds in Scientific Research

This book explores how millions of people can significantly contribute to scientific research with their effort and experience, even if they are not working at scientific institutions and may not have formal scientific training. Marion K. Poetz and Henry Sauermann provide a comprehensive guide for researchers, offering structured frameworks and tools for the effective design of crowd science projects. Drawing on examples from diverse disciplines, the book demonstrates the benefits of involving crowds at every stage of the research process, while recognizing potential challenges and offering solutions. It also discusses how recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) shape the role of crowds and can enhance the effectiveness of crowd science projects. This book aims to help scientists, policy makers, and citizens understand and leverage the potential of crowd science for more impactful research. Innovative and accessible, How and When to Involve Crowds in Scientific Research is a vital interdisciplinary resource for scholars and researchers across academia, particularly those in social, natural and technology science fields. Experienced scholars will also find the insights presented here beneficial, for their own research and as they mentor graduate students and junior colleagues in developing innovative and impactful research projects.