Introduction  

The recent International Bootcamp on Citizen Science, held at Hutan Rekreasi, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), was a remarkable event that brought together participants from various backgrounds, including university staff, librarians, and schoolchildren. This event was more than just a learning opportunity; it was an experiential journey to promote environmental awareness and encourage participants to contribute to scientific data collection. The bootcamp focused on training participants in four key modules: iNaturalist, Bird Watching, Water Quality Testing, and Eco-Printing using natural elements. This comprehensive approach provided hands-on experiences, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in citizen science activities within their own communities.

Overview of the Bootcamp

Citizen science has gained global prominence as a means of involving the public in scientific research, particularly in environmental monitoring and biodiversity conservation. The International Bootcamp on Citizen Science at Hutan Rekreasi, UTM, was designed to bridge the gap between science and the community by empowering individuals to participate actively in environmental conservation. Over the course of several days, the boot camp offered interactive sessions and field activities, allowing participants to immerse themselves in nature while acquiring practical scientific skills.

Participants included university staff and librarians, who are vital in disseminating information and knowledge, and schoolchildren, who represent the next generation of environmental stewards. This diverse mix of participants facilitated an exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences, enriching the learning process and fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Module 1: iNaturalist – Documenting Biodiversity

The first module of the boot camp introduced participants to iNaturalist, a popular citizen science platform that enables users to document and share observations of biodiversity. Participants learned how to use the iNaturalist app to identify and record various species of plants, animals, and insects found in Hutan Rekreasi.

The hands-on training sessions included:

– Downloading and Setting Up iNaturalist: Participants were guided through the process of installing and configuring the iNaturalist app on their devices.

– Field Exploration: Equipped with smartphones and tablets, participants ventured into the forest to photograph and document different flora and fauna.

– Species Identification: Utilizing the app, they identified various species and uploaded their observations to the iNaturalist database.

This activity was particularly engaging for the schoolchildren, who were excited to discover and learn about the rich biodiversity within the forest. The use of technology made the learning process interactive, and the real-time identification feature of iNaturalist added an element of excitement and curiosity. University staff and librarians also appreciated the educational potential of the platform, recognizing its usefulness for research and community outreach.

Module 2: Bird Watching – Observing Avian Diversity

Bird watching was another highlight of the boot camp. Participants had the opportunity to observe and learn about the diverse bird species inhabiting Hutan Rekreasi. Experienced bird watchers and ornithologists led this module, offering valuable insights into bird behavior, identification, and the importance of birds in ecosystems.

The training included:

– Introduction to Bird Watching Basics: Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of bird watching, including the use of binoculars, bird guides, and mobile apps for identifying birds.

– Early Morning Bird Walks: Since birds are most active in the early morning, participants took part in guided bird-watching walks at dawn. They learned to identify birds by their physical characteristics, calls, and behaviors.

– Bird Conservation Awareness: Trainers emphasized the role of birds in maintaining ecological balance and highlighted the importance of conserving bird habitats.

For participants, this module was not just about observing birds; it also focused on understanding the interconnectedness of all species. The school children were particularly captivated by the birds’ vibrant plumage and melodious songs, while the adults gained a deeper appreciation for the region’s avian diversity and the significance of conservation efforts.

Module 3: Water Quality Testing – Understanding Aquatic Health

Water is an essential resource, and understanding its quality is crucial for both environmental and human health. The water quality testing module aimed to educate participants about the methods and significance of monitoring water bodies. Participants learned how to test for various parameters such as pH, turbidity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen, which are indicators of water quality.

The activities in this module included:

– Introduction to Water Quality Testing Tools: Trainers demonstrated how to use different water testing kits and explained the importance of each parameter being measured.

– Hands-On Testing of Local Streams: Participants collected water samples from nearby streams and analyzed them using the provided tools. They recorded their observations and compared them against standard values to assess water quality.

– Discussion on Water Pollution: The training also included a discussion on the sources of water pollution and the impact of contaminated water on ecosystems and human health. Participants were encouraged to consider ways to mitigate pollution in their own communities.

This module was an eye-opener for many participants, especially schoolchildren, who witnessed firsthand the effects of pollution. University staff and librarians expressed interest in incorporating water quality monitoring into their future community engagement programs, recognizing its potential to raise awareness and promote action on water conservation.

Module 4: Eco-Print – Artistic Expression Through Nature

The final module, Eco-Print, introduced a creative and artistic dimension to the boot camp. Eco-printing involves transferring natural pigments from leaves, flowers, and other plant materials onto fabric or paper, creating unique and beautiful prints. This activity was designed to encourage participants to connect with nature creatively and sustainably.

The eco-printing process was as follows:

– Participants gathered a variety of leaves, flowers, and other natural materials from their surroundings, learning to recognize the diverse plant species in the area. The final module, Eco-Print, introduced a creative and artistic aspect to the boot camp. Eco-printing involves transferring natural pigments from leaves, flowers, and other plant materials onto fabric or paper, resulting in unique and beautiful prints. This activity aimed to inspire participants to connect with nature in a creative and sustainable manner.

Preparing the Eco-Prints

Participants used eco-friendly dyes and fabrics to learn how to arrange their collected elements on the material and transfer pigments using a simple steaming process. Each participant created their own eco-printed fabric or paper, which they took home as a memento from the boot. The International Bootcamp on Citizen Science at Hutan Rekreasi, UTM, successfully achieved its goals of educating and empowering participants to become citizen scientists. Through engaging in the various modules, participants acquired new skills and a deeper understanding of the environment and their role in its conservation. The boot camp demonstrated that citizen science can effectively foster environmental awareness, facilitate data collection, and engage communities in conservation efforts.

For university staff and librarians, the boot camp offered fresh ideas for integrating citizen science into educational programs and outreach activities. They left the event with a renewed sense of purpose, recognizing the importance of involving communities, particularly young people, in environmental stewardship. Meanwhile, the school children were inspired by the hands-on learning experiences, which sparked their curiosity and instilled a sense of responsibility towards nature.

Looking ahead, plans are to organize more boot camps in various locations, expanding the reach of citizen science initiatives. By building a network of informed and engaged citizen scientists, UTM aims to contribute to larger conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices across the region.

The eco-printing activity was particularly popular among the participants, especially the school children, who enjoyed the hands-on, creative experience. This activity also served as a gentle reminder of the importance of preserving nature, as the beautiful prints highlighted the diverse textures, shapes, and colors found in the natural world. Adults recognized the potential of eco-printing as a tool for environmental education, using art to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature.

Impact and Future Prospects

The International Bootcamp Citizen Science at Hutan Rekreasi, UTM, successfully achieved its goals of educating and empowering participants to become citizen scientists. By engaging in these modules, participants learned new skills and a deeper understanding of the environment and the role they can play in conserving it. The boot camp demonstrated that citizen science could effectively foster environmental awareness, encourage data collection, and engage communities in conservation efforts.

The boot camp provided university staff and librarians with fresh ideas for incorporating citizen science into educational programs and outreach activities. Participants left the event with a renewed sense of purpose, recognizing the importance of involving communities—especially young people—in environmental stewardship. Meanwhile, the schoolchildren were inspired by the hands-on learning experiences, which sparked their curiosity and instilled a sense of responsibility toward nature.

Looking ahead, there are plans to organize more boot camps in various locations to broaden the impact of citizen science initiatives. By developing a network of informed and engaged citizen scientists, UTM aims to contribute to larger conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices throughout the region.

Conclusion

The International Bootcamp Citizen Science at Hutan Rekreasi UTM was more than just a training event; it celebrated learning, exploration, and collaboration. Participants engaged in modules on iNaturalist, bird watching, water quality testing, and eco-printing, allowing them to connect with nature in meaningful ways while gaining practical skills and knowledge.

The boot camp’s success highlights citizen science’s potential as a valuable tool for environmental education. It brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal: preserving the natural world for future generations. The International Bootcamp Citizen Science at Hutan Rekreasi UTM was more than just a training event; it was a celebration of learning, exploration, and collaboration. Participants engaged in modules on iNaturalist, bird watching, water quality testing, and eco-printing, allowing them to connect with nature in meaningful ways while gaining practical skills and knowledge.

The boot camp’s success highlights citizen science’s potential as a valuable tool for environmental education. It brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work towards a common goal: preserving the natural world for future generations.

By Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Fadhil Md. Din, Director of UTM Campus Sustainability Office (UTMCS)