The Impact of Citizen Science in Archaeological Projects.: A Comparative Study on Impact and Contributions of Dutch Citizen Science Initiatives.

This thesis examines the impact of citizen science in archaeology, with a specific focus on the Dutch context. By means of a comparative case study analysis of four diverse archaeological projects, it is investigated what citizen science contributes to both the participants and to archaeological research and policy. The case studies concern the projects Heritage Quest, Heel Heerlen Graaft, Wyldemerck and Waterloo Uncovered, each of which represents a different type of participation and archaeological context. The central research question is: What is the impact of citizen science on both participants and archaeological research? Based on literature research, policy analysis and eighteen semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, including volunteers, project leaders and policy makers, this study provides an in-depth insight into the experiences, challenges and success factors of Dutch archaeological citizen science initiatives. The results show that participation in citizen...Show moreThis thesis examines the impact of citizen science in archaeology, with a specific focus on the Dutch context. By means of a comparative case study analysis of four diverse archaeological projects, it is investigated what citizen science contributes to both the participants and to archaeological research and policy. The case studies concern the projects Heritage Quest, Heel Heerlen Graaft, Wyldemerck and Waterloo Uncovered, each of which represents a different type of participation and archaeological context. The central research question is: What is the impact of citizen science on both participants and archaeological research? Based on literature research, policy analysis and eighteen semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, including volunteers, project leaders and policy makers, this study provides an in-depth insight into the experiences, challenges and success factors of Dutch archaeological citizen science initiatives. The results show that participation in citizen science strengthens the knowledge, involvement and wellbeing of participants, while at the same time increasing data collection, social relevance and support for archaeology. In addition to mapping these effects, this thesis also identifies structural bottlenecks such as regulations, financing and time investment. By means of a cross-case analysis, guidelines for successful citizen science in archaeology are sought. The thesis concludes with practical recommendations for future policy and project design, and includes guidelines for developing participatory archaeological projects: successful citizen science in archaeology requires clear communication, mutual trust, accessible participation, recognition of contributions and a good balance between scientific and societal goals.Show less

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The Impact of Citizen Science in Archaeological Projects. A Comparative Study on Impact and Contributions of Dutch Citizen Science Initiatives.