Citizen science can be fun and educational, but it can also spur interest among students and teachers that may ultimately benefit the environment.

An Australian school science project called Insect Investigators called upon students from 50 schools to participate in a citizen-science project contributing to scientific research. Using special traps, they gathered insect samples for DNA analysis.

The students who enjoyed these activities were more likely to verbalize their intent to do more to help the planet — this includes protecting natural environments and joining similar science projects.

The teachers also began to include more content about entomology, ecosystems and environmental care in the curriculum. Students and teachers in remote areas also felt more connected to the science world and part of something bigger.

Beyond educational impacts, the project provided benefits to regional and remote schools by creating connections with scientists and generating a sense of community involvement and scientific contribution.

These findings were published in Austral Entomology.

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