Do Science Fiction Authors Make Effective Funders in Conservation and Conservation Technology?

Methods

Summary

### I. Introduction

#### A. Purpose of the Study
- To investigate the impact of funding decisions made by science fiction authors in the realms of conservation and conservation technology.
- To explore how their unique perspectives as creative thinkers influence the selection and success of scientific projects.

#### B. Background and Rationale
- Overview of the current landscape in science funding, particularly in conservation and technology.
- Discussion on the potential value of diverse perspectives in scientific funding, especially from non-traditional backgrounds like those of science fiction authors.

#### C. Study Objectives
- To assess the decision-making process of science fiction authors in funding specific projects.
- To compare the outcomes of their funded projects with those selected by traditional science funders.
- To explore the feasibility and benefits of incorporating diverse perspectives in environmental science funding.

### II. Participant Recruitment and Selection

#### A. Criteria for Selecting Science Fiction Authors
- Must have published work in science fiction with themes relevant to science and technology.
- A mix of established and emerging authors to ensure diversity in experience and perspective.

#### B. Criteria for Selecting Control Group
- Professionals with experience in funding science projects, particularly in conservation and technology.
- Comparable in number and experience to the science fiction authors.

#### C. Recruitment Process
- Outreach through literary networks, science fiction communities, and conservation funding bodies.
- Invitation for participation through direct communication and public calls.

#### D. Participant Demographics
- Documenting age, gender, geographic location, and professional background to ensure diversity.

### III. Training and Orientation

#### A. Overview of Conservation and Conservation Tech
- Workshops on current trends, challenges, and opportunities in conservation and technology.
- Information sessions on the impact and scope of these fields.

#### B. Introduction to Scientific Funding and Project Evaluation
- Training on how to assess project proposals, focusing on criteria like feasibility, potential impact, and scientific rigor.
- Guidance on ethical considerations in funding decisions.

#### C. Ethical Considerations in Funding
- Discussing the ethical implications and responsibilities of funding conservation projects.
- Training on avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining transparency.

#### D. Data Collection and Reporting Procedures
- Instruction on how to document funding decisions and provide feedback.
- Overview of the data collection tools and platforms to be used in the study.

### IV. Budget Allocation and Project Selection

#### A. Allocation of Funds to Participants
- Each participant receives an equal amount of funding (e.g., $50,000) to allocate to projects.
- Explanation of fund distribution and usage guidelines.

#### B. Selection Criteria for Projects
- Establishing criteria for project selection, including innovation, relevance to conservation, and potential for impact.
- Encouraging participants to consider a diverse range of projects.

#### C. Platform for Project Selection and Funding
- Introduction to the online platform where participants will select and fund projects.
- Training on how to use the platform for funding decisions.

#### D. Participant Autonomy in Selection Process
- Ensuring participants have the freedom to make independent funding decisions.
- Encouraging a varied approach to funding to capture the full range of authors' perspectives.

This detailed framework for Sections I-IV provides a solid foundation for the study, encompassing its introduction, participant recruitment, training, and the initial stages of the funding process.