High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2026

Zooniverse: Where Volunteers Create Science

Zooniverse: Where Volunteers Create Science

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  • Download This file is the poster that we are presenting at the in-person showcase. It contains the information in the video in a written format, and includes some bits from interview sessions that we did with other volunteers. (630 KB)

  • Download This file is the references that we used for our project. We have cited our class textbook for the usage of the Social Change Model Material. (68 KB)

Course Code

LDR

Course Number

2002

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Haley Winston

Faculty/Instructor Email

haley.winston@ucf.edu

About the Author

Our group, The Diamonds, are a part of the LEAD Scholars Academy run by Dr. Stacey Malaret. This program is a selective 2-year program designed to help identify and strengthen leadership skills in first time in college students. This program fosters self-identity and collaboration in students preparing them them for future leadership roles. We are currently second semester freshman, enrolled in the Intermediate Foundations of Leadership course, taught by Dr. Haley Winston who encouraged us to participate in this showcase. We would like to thank our community partner, Zooniverse, who our project is focused around. 

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This project explores Zooniverse, a virtual volunteering platform that enables individuals to contribute to real-world scientific research through people-powered collaboration. As part of the LEAD Scholars Program and the Intermediate Foundations of Leadership course, this study examines how Zooniverse aligns with the Social Change Model, which emphasizes leadership development at the individual, group, and societal levels. Zooniverse’s mission, grounded in the “wisdom of the crowd,” promotes accessibility, inclusivity, and collaboration by allowing participants from diverse backgrounds to engage in research across disciplines such as biology, astronomy, and environmental science. Volunteers contribute to shared scientific goals, demonstrate sustained engagement through personal interest in projects, and collaborate both with one another and with research institutions.

Keywords

Impact; Volunteering; Science; Research; Social Change Model; LEAD Scholars

Zooniverse: Where Volunteers Create Science


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Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2026, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.