Enhancing Volunteer Support Through Multi-Format Streamwatch Resources
To better support citizen scientists in Greater Sydney, Streamwatch launched an updated online resource hub featuring videos, photos, and written guides.
- LEP23_015_RASO_9
The issue
Streamwatch volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, with different levels of experience and comfort using water quality monitoring equipment. While initial training is provided, many groups found it challenging to retain or revisit technical information over time, particularly if they didn’t monitor regularly. Written manuals alone weren’t always effective for newer members, and in-person refreshers weren’t always feasible—especially for groups located in outer regions of Greater Sydney. This led to inconsistencies in testing procedures and confidence levels among volunteers, impacting the reliability of the data collected and placing extra pressure on coordinators to provide ongoing support.
The solution
To address these challenges, Streamwatch developed a comprehensive online Resource Hub hosted on the Greater Sydney Landcare website. This hub includes instructional videos, step-by-step written guides, and photo-based walkthroughs to cater to different learning styles. Volunteers can now easily access demonstrations of testing procedures such as turbidity, pH, phosphates, and dissolved oxygen, as well as guidance on equipment care, calibration, and data entry. The resources are designed to be accessible on various devices, allowing volunteers to refer to them in the field or at home. This flexible, multi-format approach ensures consistent messaging and helps volunteers feel supported no matter where they are.
The impact
Since launching the Resource Hub, Streamwatch has seen a noticeable improvement in volunteer confidence and consistency. Groups are reporting fewer errors in testing, and volunteers feel more empowered to troubleshoot equipment or train new members using the materials provided. The hub has also proven valuable during QA Days, with many groups using it to prepare or refresh their knowledge ahead of equipment checks. By providing reliable, accessible, and easy-to-use resources, Streamwatch has strengthened its network of citizen scientists and improved the overall quality of data collected across the program.
Key facts
- A mix of videos, images, and written content supports diverse learning styles.
- Centralised resources reduce inconsistencies across volunteer groups.
- Online accessibility helps rural, remote, or busy groups stay engaged.
- Multimedia materials are valuable both for training and ongoing support.
- Regular updates to the hub keep information relevant and volunteers connected.