About the Book
Examples and strategies for partnering
with volunteers in maritime heritage research
This
volume is the first to address the ways maritime archaeologists have engaged
citizen scientists, presenting examples of projects and organizations that have
involved volunteers in the important work of gathering and processing data.
With a special focus on program development and sustainability, these practical
case studies provide reference points for archaeologists looking to design
their own citizen science projects.
In these essays, contributors describe initiatives such as the
Diver-Archaeological Reconnaissance Cooperative (DivARC), which involves combat
veterans in meaningful research missions; Diving With a Purpose, which trains adults
and youth in documenting and preserving African slave trade shipwrecks; and classroom
education that encourages high school students to develop an interest in the
field. As
volunteers learn the scope, goals, and outcomes of their research, these
studies show, they are empowered to become active participants--and true
partners--in scientific inquiry.
Throughout
the wide range of experiences represented here, the chapter authors discuss challenges
they encountered as well as ideas for optimizing future projects and strategies
for welcoming diverse communities to this work. Arguing that these initiatives
will create space for public engagement in heritage research, management, and
preservation,
Citizen Science in
Maritime Archaeology serves as a
foundation for discussion of this goal.
