Validation of data collected by volunteers exploiting an inspection form in a mobile application

Citizen science typically involves trained volunteers on monitoring and management activities to support researchers and risk managers on their understanding of the territory and hazard-related processes. From the technical perspective, survey tools are systematically tested and adapted according to quality requirements and management needs. Moreover, there is an explosive growth in the usage of mobile applications to guide participants and to collect citizen-information. However, the usability of such applications should have more attention in order to collect useful information for decision-making and to address the diversity of citizen volunteers that may get involved. This study aims at the inspection of the functional status of hydraulic structures with trained-citizens. To that end, we are testing a prototype mobile application in the framework of prevention activities promoted by the civil protection and technical services of the Friuli-Venezia-Giulia. Methods include an exercise of data collection and a learning session to guide participants on how to inspect the structures and use the mobile application. In order to validate data collected by volunteers, some participants carry out the inspection without attending the learning session. Then, we get an indication about the usability of the prototype mobile application while looking among other aspects at the effectiveness, memorability and user satisfaction. Finally, we use the evaluation of data collected, general perceptions and potential problems discovered during this study to provide recommendations in order to improve the survey protocols.