Citizen Science Integration in Biology Education : A Systematic Review

Abstract

Biology learning is closely aligned with citizen science, which actively engages students in scientific activities. However, no systematic literature review (SLR) has specifically explored how citizen science is integrated into biology education and its contributions to student learning outcomes. This study aims to analyze the integration of citizen science into biology teaching and evaluate its impact on student achievement in schools and universities. Using the PRISMA method with three stages—identification, scanning, and inclusion—the review identified 21 relevant articles. Findings show that successful integration of citizen science in biology learning depends on the alignment of scientific and educational goals, adequate technological and resource support, effective collaboration among students, teachers, and scientists, and the design of projects that are relevant, structured, and educationally challenging. Project-based learning emerges as the most common pedagogical approach integrated with citizen science projects, particularly at secondary and higher education levels. The review highlights that 21 types of citizen science projects have been applied in biology education, reinforcing concepts in molecular biology, genetics, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Positive contributions were observed across cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains. Cognitive outcomes included improved conceptual understanding of biology, psychomotor outcomes included enhanced laboratory and research skills, while affective outcomes showed increased interest in science and learning motivation.