THEME 1: From traditional science to open science
The basic notions of scientific development are presented and the different existing research methods are analysed. The current context of open science and its basic pillars are analyzed, discussing the change of paradigm that it implies at the level of production, diffusion and appropriation of scientific knowledge. Open" concepts are presented (open-access, open data, open research, open innovation). The role of collaboration, transparency and reproducibility in scientific research is analyzed. The scope and limitations of participatory research (definition, characteristics, typologies) and the possibilities of including citizens in scientific research are discussed.
THEME 2: Science WITH and FOR society
This theme focuses on the analysis of the evolution of different lines of thought related to the transmission and production of knowledge between academia and society. European and national initiatives related to the promotion of interaction between science and society (dissemination, popularization, scientific culture, SWAFS calls, etc) are presented. Different calls for projects are identified in order to know their objectives, origins, background, foundations. Local and institutional initiatives are also presented that can include the participation of undergraduate students. The role of the scientist and the citizen in research projects is discussed and students are asked how to propose inclusive projects at different levels (such as the TFG).
THEME 3: Towards a sustainable society
One of the objectives of citizen science is to respond to local problems, many of them related to sustainability issues. Therefore, in this topic we will analyze the origin, background, scope and context in which the term Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) arises, also considering related concepts such as the Millennium Goals or Agenda 2030. Various international, national and local initiatives related to the fulfillment of the SDG will be presented. The social repercussion of the topic in the media, social networks, etc. will be analyzed and discussed.
THEME 4: The University's commitment to sustainability
Higher Education Institutions play a fundamental role in the development of new scientific knowledge and their action is central as a link between several stakeholders. For this reason, this theme focuses on the analysis of the actions carried out by universities in implementing initiatives related to sustainability. Emphasis will be placed on the Spanish context by considering strategies, regulations and policies proposed and implemented at the national level and in universities. The actions carried out at UC3M will be presented. Initiatives that include participatory methodologies will also be studied.
THEME 5: "Science in Action". The science-shops
This thematic section focuses on the study of the dynamics of a participatory project. It takes as an example actions carried out in a "science-shop" to analyze and value the processes, interaction between different stakeholders, participation, results, monitoring. Different real projects will be analysed and discussed. Finally, students will be proposed the implementation of participatory research projects focused on the resolution of problems related to sustainability.