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Abstract Natural history collections (NHCs) are the foundation of historical baselines for assessing anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity. Along these lines, the online mobilization of specimens via digitization—the conversion of specimen data into accessible digital content—has greatly expanded the use of NHC collections across a diversity of disciplines. We broaden the current vision of digitization (Digitization 1.0)—whereby specimens are digitized within NHCs—to include new approaches that rely on digitized products rather than the physical specimen (Digitization 2.0). Digitization 2.0 builds on the data, workflows, and infrastructure produced by Digitization 1.0 to create digital-only workflows that facilitate digitization, curation, and data links, thus returning value to physical specimens by creating new layers of annotation, empowering a global community, and developing automated approaches to advance biodiversity discovery and conservation. These efforts will transform large-scale biodiversity assessments to address fundamental questions including those pertaining to critical issues of global change.
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Examining how interactive storytelling methods influence perceptions of scientific collections
Scientific collections hold value in a wide range of fields, from conservation to species-restoration. However, many are unaware of collections’ direct contributions to scientific discovery. Collections are a key source of data, but may not be emphasized to emerging scientists as such. While institutions make collections more accessible, preserved specimens may be misunderstood as nothing more than static, dead creatures in cabinets. To combat this, I created a StoryMap on the history of specimen collections and how they have changed, with case-studies and interviews from the California Academy of Sciences that illuminate collections’ roles in modern conservation. StoryMaps are interactive multimedia pieces that present information in novel, highly engaging ways. This more-accessible medium allows for an easily digestible story encompassing 100 years of specimen-collection. Participants between the ages of 18-25 will answer questions before and after reading the StoryMap to gauge how perceptions of the value of scientific collections have changed. Ultimately, this project endeavors to leave young adults with a deeper appreciation for specimen collections and thus contribute to them centering specimens in future decision-making. Young adults are a key generation that is shaping the future of science. Thus, comprehending the value of specimen collections is paramount to ensuring collections are adequately supported in the future, and that research in species conservation continues. As technology rapidly advances, the value of specimen collections grows, and supporting their stewardship ensures access to historical data as new research questions emerge.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2243994
- PAR ID:
- 10502212
- Publisher / Repository:
- Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science - 2023 NDiSTEM
- Date Published:
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Location:
- Portland, OR
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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