Read the following comprehension and answer the questions that follow.
The Rise of Citizen Science: Crowdsourcing Knowledge for a Better World
For centuries, scientific progress has been driven by the dedicated efforts of professional
researchers. However, the 21st century has witnessed a revolutionary shift in scientific
inquiry with the emergence of citizen science. Citizen science, also known as crowdsourcing
science, involves engaging the general public in scientific projects. This allows researchers to
gather vast amounts of data, analyze complex phenomena, and solve real-world problems at
an unprecedented scale.
One of the most compelling advantages of citizen science is its ability to collect data over
large geographical areas and extended periods. Traditional scientific research is often limited
by budget and manpower. Citizen science projects, on the other hand, can leverage the power
of the crowd. By recruiting volunteers who can contribute observations or measurements
from their own backyards or communities, researchers can acquire a wealth of data that
would be impossible to collect with a limited research team.
Citizen science projects encompass a diverse range of scientific disciplines. In astronomy,
projects like Galaxy Zoo have enlisted millions of volunteers to classify galaxies based on
their morphology. This massive undertaking has provided invaluable insights into the
structure and evolution of the universe. Similarly, in ecology, projects like eBird have
revolutionized our understanding of bird migration patterns by allowing birdwatchers to
submit their observations online.
Citizen science also fosters public engagement with science. By actively participating in
research, volunteers gain a deeper appreciation for the scientific process and the challenges
faced by researchers. This can lead to increased science literacy and a more informed
citizenry. Additionally, citizen science projects can empower local communities by allowing
them to contribute to research that directly impacts their environment.
However, citizen science projects also have limitations. One challenge lies in ensuring data
quality. Volunteers may lack the scientific training of professional researchers, leading to
potential errors or inconsistencies in data collection. To address this, project designers often
incorporate training modules and data validation procedures. Another challenge involves
ensuring project sustainability. Citizen science relies heavily on volunteer participation,
which can fluctuate over time. Strong communication and engagement strategies are crucial
to maintain a consistent pool of active participants.
Despite these challenges, citizen science holds immense potential for accelerating scientific
progress and fostering public engagement with science. As technology continues to evolve,
we can expect citizen science projects to become even more sophisticated and impactful.
From monitoring climate change to discovering new species, citizen science is democratizing
science and empowering the public to contribute to a better understanding of the world
around us.
Answer the questions that follow
1. What is the CENTRAL IDEA of the passage?
a) Professional researchers are no longer needed in the age of citizen science.
b) Citizen science is a revolutionary approach to scientific inquiry that leverages public
participation. CORRECT
c) Citizen science projects are primarily focused on astronomy and ecology.
d) Citizen science is a flawless method of scientific research.
2. According to the passage, what is a MAJOR advantage of citizen science?
a) It is less expensive than traditional research methods. CORRECT
b) It requires less time commitment from researchers.
c) It produces data of a higher quality.
d) It eliminates the need for scientific training.
3.How does citizen science contribute to public engagement with science?
a) It provides financial incentives for participation.
b) It simplifies complex scientific concepts.
c) It allows the public to actively participate in research. CORRECT
d) It replaces the need for professional researchers.
4.Which of the following is NOT a limitation of citizen science projects as mentioned in the
passage?
a) Difficulty in ensuring data quality
b) Lack of funding for research equipment
c) Fluctuating levels of volunteer participation CORRECT
d) Dependence on complex technology
5. The phrase "democratizing science" (paragraph 4) suggests that citizen science:
a) Makes scientific research more expensive.
b) Makes scientific knowledge more accessible. CORRECT
c) Relies solely on government funding.
d) Limits scientific research to a select few.
6. What is the MAIN FUNCTION of the example about Galaxy Zoo in the passage?
a) To illustrate the limitations of citizen science projects.
b) To highlight the potential of citizen science in astronomy. CORRECT
c) To discuss the challenges of classifying galaxies.
d) To emphasize the importance of professional astronomers.
7.In the context of the passage, the word "invaluable" (paragraph 2) most closely means:
a) Expensive
b) Unreliable
c) Priceless CORRECT
d) Unnecessary
8. Which of the following statements can be INFERRED from the passage?
a) Citizen science will eventually replace traditional scientific research methods.
b) Citizen science projects can empower local communities
c) science holds immense potential for accelerating scientific progress
d) Science provides only logic and reason
9. What is the correct meaning of unprecedented?
a) never having happened or existed before
b) familiar
c) time honoured
d) imitative
10. Which of the following best describes the field of morphology in linguistics?
a) The study of the meaning and structure of sentences.
b) The study of the rules governing pronunciation.
c) The study of how words are formed and their internal structure.
d) The analysis of different language families and their relationships.
