The citizen science perspective for the development of sustainability competencies

Abstract

The article explores the role of citizen science as an educational device and possibility for developing skills and counteracting the phenomena of de-literacy. Learning by doing implies a potential transformation of the whole society to increase democratic participation and awareness of socio-environmental responsibility.

An emblematic case presented is the “Clic Plan Plus” project, implemented at the ‘V. Catullo” School in Desenzano del Garda, which involved students and teachers in the analysis of drought and the effects of climate change. The initiative fostered the acquisition of scientific, critical and collaborative skills, highlighting the value of participatory research in strengthening the link between school, community and local government. The work emphasises the importance of integrating citizen science into educational programmes.