Abstract
Participatory science can be defined as forms of scientific knowledge production involving - with researchers - citizens. In this seminar, I will review the long history of amateur involvement in science for the study of biodiversity, as well as the rise in importance of these programs in recent decades. In addition, through some of the results of the Vigie-Nature program, I will explain the relevance of participatory science in assessing the various responses of biodiversity to global change. In particular, I'll show how they can be used to assess the impact of habitat destruction, climate change, mitigation measures and individual management practices. Finally, I'll show how participation in these programs not only helps to modify the representations of nature held by the volunteers involved, but also to bring about changes in knowledge, perceptions of science and behavior.
