“My favourite part of participating in the eDNA project was the fieldwork aspect. Going out as a class and collecting primary data that would be used for actual research was really insightful and useful as we are coming closer to what we want to achieve after school.” - Student, Aquinas College, Year 11 Environmental Science.
“Josh was awesome with the students, he gave the students time to ask him questions about his job and what he does, as well as collecting the water samples. The year 12 class from last year used these results for their Biodiversity project.” - Nagle College Teacher, Year 11 & 12 Environmental Class.
Victorian School Program - Funded by Landcare Australia
Citizen science
Education
EnviroDNA, supported by the Victorian Junior Landcare Biodiversity Grants, initiated an educational program connecting students from Year 2 to Year 12 with local ecosystems through hands-on biological research and water sampling. Key outcomes included real-world ecological project participation, field sampling experience and enhanced understanding of DNA and conservation. The initiative encouraged students to explore their local ecosystems, fostering awareness of biodiversity and protection efforts.
EnviroDNA engaged six schools in Victoria through a pilot program. Each school received an education session on eDNA and water sample collection. Students, with teacher support, designed projects to collect samples from local creeks and dams, which were analysed by EnviroDNA. Schools received custom citizen science reports and presentations to explain findings, along with a Q&A session with an EnviroDNA scientist. The results facilitated conservation efforts, individudal species research and data analysis.
- Hands-on experience with ecological research project
These projects offered hands-on experience through science-based learning, enhancing their understanding of biodiversity innovations and molecular processes. - Enhanced understanding of local waterways and biodiversity
Students explored their local surroundings and conducted habitat assessments at the sites. With the eDNA results, they gained a deeper understanding of the condition of nature and measures to safeguard it. - Community building opportunities
Several schools developed their own initiatives based on their findings, conducting research focused on specific species and eDNA. They shared their results with the local community with newsletters and presentations.
Want to learn more?
We deliver innovative citizen science programs using eDNA. Sampling is safe, simple and easy to learn. These tools open the door for communities to connect with local ecosystems and help guide restoration activities. We have designed programs for community groups, schools and organisations to deliver tailored programs based on a range of community or social objectives.