Extreme User Participation Process Analysis in Participatory Science

- Case Study of "Everyone’s Euglena Project"-

Abstract

This study aims to develop a participatory science platform in Japan by identifying design requirements for touch-points, participation pathways, and interaction mechanisms between citizens and the platform. Using semi-structured interviews and journey mapping, the research examines the motivations and behaviors of extreme users involved in participatory science projects with the "Minna no Midorimushi Project" serving as a case study. The study reveals three key functional structures. First, extreme users can serve as "participation catalysts". Second, citizen participation tends to evolve through a four-stage process: exploration → invitation → confirmation → further consideration; Finally, the visualization of individual contributions plays a significant role in sustaining motivation for continued engagement. Based on these findings, three design requirements for an effective participatory science platform emerged: touch-points, participation pathways, and interactions. These insights provide valuable implications for encouraging broader public engagement in participatory science.