Myco-Ed Module: Using iNaturalist - Create a Course Project
Andrew W. Wilson
Disclaimer
iNaturalist is an external tool that is used by the Myco-Ed project to assist in monitoring and gathering data for the project. The Myco-Ed Project is not directly affiliated with iNaturalist.
Abstract
This protocol is for instructors. Follow the steps for making a Traditional Project. This type of project will make it easier for instructors to control the observations that are included in the project and insure these are relevant to the course and Myco-Ed objectives.
Steps
Create a Traditional Project
We want to use a Traditional Project as opposed to a Collections Project on iNaturalist because the Traditional Project allows you and the students to have more control over which observations are included.
HOWEVER, iNaturalist requires that users have a minimum of 50 verifiable observations before they can create this kind of project. If you do not meet this requirement, please contact Andy (andrew.wilson@botanicgardens.org).
Click HERE to create a Traditional Project on iNaturalist.
On the New Project Page start by...
Create a New Project Title.
Make the project invite-only .
Add a project icon for your course.
Scroll down to Observation Fields .
Type "DNA Barcode ITS". When this option appears as an option in the menu, select it. It is then automatically added to project observations.
Proceed to add other Observation Field as you see necessary. Adding Observation Fields will provide space for students to add data to each observation they include in the project. In the above case
You can ignore the following sections:
- Location - You can set this, but it's easier to have participants regulate which observations are added to the project.
- Observation Rules - Same issue as with Location.
- Project List - Not necessary.
Select Create button at the bottom of the page.
Your project is created!
Email Andrew Wilson (andrew.wilson@botanicgardens.org) upon completion of this step so it can be added to the Myco-Ed Umbrella Project on iNaturalist. You should also to the Myco-Ed Project on iNaturalist to become a member.
You are currently the only member of your course project. Go to the "Adding Students" Module for instructions on how to add students.
