A Green Approach: Bioblitzes and Citizen Science for Community Engagement and Environmental Awareness

In recent news, Safiya Sabir ’21, a GFP (Global Field Program) graduate from New York, New York, has been published in NSTA’s Connected Science Learning. In her article, Sabir highlights the importance of organizing community bioblitzes and provides educators with valuable insights on how to do so effectively.

A bioblitz is a biological survey that brings together students, teachers, parents, and scientists to survey local habitats and introduce citizen science to communities. Sabir emphasizes the role of web-based citizen science projects like bioblitzes in providing scientists and the general public access to valuable data about the natural world. Through these projects, a vast amount of information can be gathered and shared, fostering a better understanding of local ecosystems.

Sabir pursued a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Biological Sciences through Project Dragonfly’s GFP program while also holding the position of Director of Public Programs at a science museum in Bronx, New York. Her dedication to both education and community engagement is evident in her work and advocacy for citizen science initiatives like bioblitzes.