Engaging Students in Urban Renovation: A Participatory Science Model for Microbiome Sampling Fieldwork

Urban microbiology has become an important part of urban renovation planning. Yet, it faces limitations: the punctiform nature of microbiome sampling necessitates countless samples for adequate data collection, while the common perception of microorganisms as inconspicuous and neglectable presents a significant challenge to impactful outcomes. To address these challenges, we've developed a participatory science model involving students in sampling campaigns, enabling large-scale collection and fostering awareness of this fundamental scientific field. During the Bicocca Sampling Days, participants were equipped with theoretical knowledge, protocols, and materials, and collected more than 2000 samples and related metadata from the Bicocca district, Milan. We assessed the model’s impacts with standard and novel scales evaluating attitudes toward science and nature, understanding of the sampling process, skills related to science inquiry, and self-efficacy for learning and doing science.