Thursday, August 28, 2014

Recover Historic Research with the Smithsonian

Photo Courtesy: Smithsonian
This blog was started to highlight the many citizen science projects available and show people how easy it is to contribute.  I've come a long way since then and have begun focusing on larger citizen science themes as well.  But I still like to showcase new projects every now and then.  Especially one so close to my heart.

The Smithsonian Digital Volunteers program needs your help going through their vast collection of historic scientific archives and transcribing the data for future analysis.  With a collection as large as the Smithsonian's a huge number of pieces are donated or created by institution scientists, but their data can easily be overlooked or lost among the overwhelming volume.  By digitizing and transcribing, all the information can be cataloged, stored centrally and then reviewed by anyone interested in the topic. It also allows researchers to use modern data management and analysis tools to find previously hidden connections from within the various sources.

This type of data has many different uses.  In some cases, historical weather data, and even counts of plants and animals, can be used to track climate change and global warming.  Even the impact of that change of local species can be tracked with that data.  It also allows information on now-extinct species that were alive back when the record was created, and allows scientists fill in the holes in the historic record to see how our wold overall is changing.

Transcription may sound easy but things can get complicated.  And not just because of handwriting that is worse then mine.  For example, take the snippet below from a mid-1800s electrical conduction experiment performed by former Smithsonian Secretary Joseph Henry.

Photo Courtesy: OpenScientist
There is a word here (highlighted in yellow) which seems to be six letters long and is some sort of synonym for "travel".  Also, based on a review of other letters on this page, it is most likely an "H" since the one other word starting with an "H" looks nearly identical to it.  But the word eludes me and has eluded the six other people who have worked on it so far.  You may have better luck, but it's this type of roadblock that can suddenly eat up your transcription time, and which the Smithsonian can not afford to have their own staff doing.  A further analysis of electrical terms beginning with an "H" may help provide the answer, but so far it's still being worked on.  This is where you come in.

Getting Started is Easy:

  1. Register for a new account by visiting the New User Account page and supplying a username and email address.  Once entered, check your email and click the verification link to confirm your intent to create the account and set up a password.  No other personal information is required.
  2. Visit the main Transcription Center web site to learn more about the project and discover the source transcription materials that most interest you.
  3. Review the Instructions for transcribing.  In a nutshell, include every word as it appears in the document (misspellings included) and accurately describe any images on the page.  Don't worry about bold or italicized text but do note any underlines or strikeouts. 
  4. Go back to the main page and pick the source material you wish to work from.  Click on it, and then see all of the pages in that document. For starters, pick one that has not been begun.
  5. Transcribe the page as directed in the instructions.  Once you are fully done, click to Submit for Review.
  6. If you wish to review someone's transcription, click a page marked "Needs Review" and proofread the entire page.  If there is not a single error, click "Mark as Complete". This sends it to Smithsonian staff for finalizing.  If there is a problem, make the change and then click "Complete and Mark for Review" to have another independent person review this updated, corrected version.
  7. If you are unsure of a word, just enter a set of double brackets [[]] and add your best guess.  This will help the next person while not making it an official note.
That's all there is to it!


It really is simple to lend a hand.  Just select from the source materials currently available; right now they are categorized into themes of "Biodiverse Planet", "Mysteries of the Universe", "Field Book Registry",  "American Experience", "Civil War", and "World Cultures".  These aren't just pulled from the scientific artifacts but the entire Smithsonian collection.  So not only can you learn about science, but U.S. history and art as well.

This is a great project for new citizen scientists, people living in the Washington, DC area, environmentalists studying climate change, and anyone interested in the history of science.  So what are you waiting for?  Let's start transcribing!

69 comments:

  1. Wonderful, Your articles are very informative with lots of new ideas and innovations. Nice to find such informative blogs over internet. These are really impressive. Lovely blogging. Keep sharing more. thanks a lot.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Wonderful, Your articles are very informative with lots of new ideas and innovations
    Mi Home Apk

    ReplyDelete
  3. It really is simple to lend a hand. Just select from the source materials currently available
    Download Android USB Drivers

    ReplyDelete
  4. It really is simple to lend a hand. Just select from the source materials currently available; right now
    Driving Zone 2 Mod Apk

    ReplyDelete
  5. our articles are very informative with lots of new ideas
    Run, sausage, run For PC

    ReplyDelete
  6. Thank You for Sharing this Article.
    Check out the best bookshelves

    ReplyDelete
  7. Looking for a job? Browse thousands of direct job offers and find the best suitable position on Jobboss.co.uk. Job search for all jobs near me. Just apply for a job vacancy with one click.

    if you want more just look here "job boss"

    ReplyDelete

  8. Latest updates are only on pinoy 1 tv here all the filipino shows are broadcasted on time Pinoy tv Replay no 1 platform where you can watch your favourite tfc serial.

    ReplyDelete


  9. تنظيف بالاحساء افضل شركة تنظيف بالاحساء
    تنظيف شقق بالدمام تنظيف شقق بالدمام
    تنظيف شقق بالمدينة المنورة تنظيف شقق بالمدينة المنورة
    تنظيف شقق بالرياض تنظيف شقق بالرياض



    تنظيف كنب بالمدينة المنورة تنظيف كنب بالمدينة المنورة
    تنظيف سجاد بمكة تنظيف سجاد بمكة
    تنظيف سجاد بالمدينة المنورة تنظيف سجاد بالمدينة المنورة
    تنظيف سجاد بالدمام تنظيف سجاد بالدمام


    ReplyDelete
  10. Kinemaster for PC has an amazing user-friendly interface and it is very easy to handle and customize. With the help of KineMaster For Windows 10 you can edit your videos in no time. It is definitely one of the best video editing tools which are available in the app store and play store. KineMaster For PC, Windows 10 And MAC also allows a user to share the edited videos on the different place with the help of this application you can share your edited videos to Instagram Facebook Twitter or anywhere else you want to this application also allows you to save the video in your own photo gallery to watch it later.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I will tell you all about the best CCTV client available on Android named iVMS-4500. Moreover, I will also tell you how you can download iVMS-4500 for PC Windows 10 & Mac .
    IP cameras are playing an important role globally. Unlike CCTV (analog closed-circuit television), IP camera( Internet protocol camera) is a digital video camera, they only require LAN (Local area network) rather than local recording devices. Webcams are a well-known example of IP cameras. IP cameras are basically those, that can be directly accessed over a network connection and used for surveillance only.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Easyviewerlite is a very authentic and highly dependable security camera system. If you wish to spend a secure and safe livelihood, this surveillance camera application is by far the best for you in-store. Easyviewerlite was developed by Overseas. It is available for all devices. The application offers a variety of functions that enhances its performance and functioning. You can also download it on your PC. Read the instructions below on how to download Easyviewerlite for PC .
    This application is free of cost. You only have to purchase the cameras.
    Stream high-quality HD videos with the Easyviewerlite app on your device anywhere and whenever.
    The application saves all data in the Cloud. Hence a Cloud account is required.
    Users can set alarms in advance and the camera will operate automatically when the alarm sets on.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Excellent post!!! It was very interesting and very comprehensive post. Well done post and Keep doing...
    Living Room Accessories

    ReplyDelete
  14. It allows you a conveniently stream media content on your android devices without using any other software.IPTV Smarters for PC is a perfect way to stream media content directly from your cloud without downloading onto your PC, laptop or purchase any other software. Since IPTV Smarters offers free services to its users, the limits of its usability are only set by your imagination.

    ReplyDelete
  15. The information given by you through the webpage is very important. Keep posting your valuable information in the same way so that people can get help.lottery sambad

    ReplyDelete
  16. I was always curious how is working historic researcher. Is it interesting or not? I think it is good topic for my next funny video for tiktok. Usually I buy tiktok likes from this site https://soclikes.com/buy-tiktok-likes. Should I do it this time or not?

    ReplyDelete
  17. This type of data has many different uses. In some cases, historical weather data, and even counts of plants and animals, can be used to track climate change and global warming. Even the impact of that change of local species can be tracked with that data. bed linen online , homechoice comforters , single bed sheets online , bridal bed sheet price , jersey duvet cover , single razai , plain sofa covers , velvet fitted sheet , double bed razai cover It also allows information on now-extinct species that were alive back when the record was created, and allows scientists fill in the holes in the historic record to see how our wold overall is changing.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Thank you so much for this innovative post, keep it up for more valuable information. Visit Ogen Infosystem for professional Website Designing and SEO Services in Delhi, India.
    Top 5 Website Designing Company in India

    ReplyDelete
  19. You have a great blog here! would you like to make some invite posts on my blog?

    Comibaby.com
    Information
    Click Here
    Visit Web

    ReplyDelete
  20. An interesting discussion is worth comment. I think that you should write more on this topic, it might not be a taboo subject but generally people are not enough to speak on such topics. To the next. Cheers

    Manaaki.io
    Information
    Click Here
    Visit Web

    ReplyDelete
  21. Thanks for Sharing This Article.It is very so much valuable content. . AWS course in Chennai

    ReplyDelete
  22. With special privileges and services, UEFA BET offers opportunities for small capitalists. Together ufa with the best websites that collect the most games With a minimum deposit starting from just 100 baht, you are ready to enjoy the fun with a complete range of betting that is available within the website

    ufabet , our one another option We are a direct website, not through an agent, where customers can have great confidence without deception The best of online betting sites is that our Ufa will give you the best price

    หาคุณกำลังหาเกมส์ออนไลน์ที่สามารถสร้างรายได้ให้กับคุณ เรามีเกมส์แนะนำ เกมยิงปลา รูปแบบใหม่เล่นง่ายบนมือถือ คาสิโนออนไลน์ บนคอม เล่นได้ทุกอุปกรณ์รองรับทุกเครื่องมือ มีให้เลือกเล่นหลายเกมส์ เล่นได้ทั่วโลกเพราะนี้คือเกมส์ออนไลน์แบบใหม่ เกมยิงปลา

    อีกทั้งเรายังให้บริการ เกมสล็อต ยิงปลา แทงบอลออนไลน์ รองรับทุกการใช้งานในอุปกรณ์ต่าง ๆ HTML5 คอมพิวเตอร์ แท็บเล็ต สมาทโฟน คาสิโนออนไลน์ และมือถือทุกรุ่น เล่นได้ตลอด 24ชม. ไม่ต้อง Downloads เกมส์ให้ยุ่งยาก ด้วยระบบที่เสถียรที่สุดในประเทศไทย

    ReplyDelete
  23. By far the most real football betting UFABET that's beyond description Find fun, excitement and excitement with slot games, 100 totally free credit, rapid withdrawal. If you want to play slots for cash No need to have to deposit a good deal, without bare minimum, without need to have to discuss, throw away moment because UFABET is in fact broken off, paid seriously, a number of excellent offers are awaiting you. Ready to assure enjoyable, no matter if it's Joker SlotXo fruit slot, we can telephone call it a web slot internet site for you especially. Ready to play Including the assistance team which is going to facilitate slot formulas plus methods of actively playing So you will be sure that every minute of fun and excitement We will be there for you to give your customers the best impact along with achievement.
    บาคาร่า
    สล็อต
    ufa
    แทงบอล

    ReplyDelete
  24. Thanks for sharing this wonderful post with us and hoping that you will continue doing this job on the daily basis to guide us in a better way. บาคาร่าออนไลน์

    ReplyDelete
  25. I think the admin of this web site is working really hard for his website, because every content here is quality based information. Excellent article .... Turkey transit visa for US citizens, you can get Turkey visa online. There will be a need to fill out the visa application form Turkey through the Turkey visa online guide.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Thank you for this amazing post.. Wish to travel to Azerbaijan for business and tourism purpose then apply for Azerbaijan visa online. That offers you fast and very secure process.

    ReplyDelete
  27. During the training, they are taken through counter-surveillance, first aid, venue security, incident management, route selection, and risk and threat assessment.close protection in UK
    Our company is owned by ex-special forces and we employ ex special forces and ex military bodyguards for hire. There are many ways our services can help you.

    ReplyDelete
  28. I am also interested in historical research. This shows me about the past. Thanks for sharing these information with all of us. Kinemaster Gold

    ReplyDelete
  29. An impressive share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in fact bought me breakfast because I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love reading more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more details? It is highly helpful for me. Big thumb up for this blog post!

    About.me
    Information
    Click Here
    Visit Web

    ReplyDelete
  30. pg slot

    The best PG slot games online on mobile phones, new types of slots, have a simple, fun playing style, not boring like playing slots in the same format anymore. Slot games break most often. Get bonuses quickly. can turn you into a new millionaire with pg game

    ReplyDelete
  31. It's really great. Thank you for providing a quality article. There is something you might be interested in. Do you know 룰렛사이트? If you have more questions, please come to my site and check it out!


    ReplyDelete
  32. "What I do not realize is actually how you're no longer actually much more
    smartly-liked than you might be now. You are very intelligent.
    You know thus considerably when it comes
    to this matter, produced me in my view believe it from numerous numerous angles.
    Its like men and women don't seem to be fascinated until it's something to do with Girl gaga!

    Your individual stuffs outstanding. All the time care for it up!"

    야한동영상
    오피헌터
    횟수 무제한 출장
    스포츠마사지

    ReplyDelete
  33. Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the story. I cant believe youre not more popular because you definitely have the gift.

    Laordendelacerveza.com
    Information
    Click Here
    Visit Web

    ReplyDelete
  34. Free Spins is 300% easier than ever because we have updated the bonus game entry system to make it even easier. where we make changes and make changes to the PG SLOT game system in terms of the AI ​​system To make it even better, it makes it easier to get into the free games bonus than anywhere in the hundreds. You can be confident that this website will not be disappointed with this website.-makam14007

    ReplyDelete
  35. ทดลองเล่นPG พีจีสล็อต ความบันเทิงจากการปั่นสล็อต รับเงินรางวัลต่างๆได้ไม่ยาก เล่นได้แบบที่ไม่ต้องสมัครสมาชิก กับเว็บไซต์ PGSLOTGAMES นำเสนอเกมสล็อตที่หลากหลาย เล่นได้ง่าย ไม่ซ้ำใคร ที่คัดสรรเกมใหม่ เกมดังให้คุณได้เล่นโดยเฉพาะ

    ReplyDelete
  36. หากคุณกำลังมองหา การเล่น ทดลองเล่นเกมฟรี ทำได้แบบไม่เสียค่าใช้จ่าย เล่นได้เลยผ่านเว็บไซต์ PGSLOTGMAES ทำจริง เล่นได้ผ่านระบบ ทดลองเล่น ทดลองเล่นสล็อตฟรี PG ทำได้แบบไม่มีเงื่อนไข ถอนเงินต่างๆได้ฟรีๆ เหมาะมากสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ สมัครเลยตอนนี้

    ReplyDelete
  37. fine blog and honestly awesome. you could lead your hands for your palms on grip of some thing a good deal stepped forward however i nonetheless make known this affiliation maintain infuriating for the best.! Visual Paradigm Crack

    ReplyDelete
  38. i discovered your this make recognized even though attempting to find statistics roughly blog-connected research ... it is a big pronounce .. desist posting and updating point out.! Microsoft Office 2010 Crack Free Download

    ReplyDelete
  39. it became a first rate unintentional to visit this nice of site and i am satisfied to recognize. thank you therefore lots for giving us a chance to have this possibility..! 1st Birthday Wishes

    ReplyDelete
  40. Odisha 6th Examination Conducted by Department of School and Mass Education, Government of Odisha, Students looking for Previous years Question Papers 2023 as well. we have uploaded some Genuine Odisha Board 6th Model Paper 2023 provide them a Complete idea to Prepare well before Examination and with the help of Previous years Papers 2023, Odisha 6th Class Model Paper 2023 High School Students Searching for Odisha 6th class Previous Question Paper 2023 we have Attached the past few year Paper 2023s here go through the Details and Download those Papers 2023 you want. Start your Preparation with Odisha Board to get Qualified in High School Exam with more marks, Candidates are Advised to Practice Through Odisha 6th Sample Paper 2023.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Open for more than 2 years, there are many online slots game websites that are easy to play, guaranteed by many players from the old camp like Pgslot and famous brand games from all directions gathered here, allowing players to choose the game. Lots of promotions. players like to play happily pgslot168game along with giving a special bonus to people up to 20 % of the deposit to play as well.

    ReplyDelete
  42. You put obliging information. Keep on writing for a blog. Thankyou for sharing
    https://www.seo-bookmarks.win/tiktok-ads-examples

    ReplyDelete
  43. Generally I never remark on sites yet your article is persuading to such an extent that I never stop myself to express something about it. You're working effectively Man, Keep it up. https://franciscooxzc362.wordpress.com/2022/09/03/15-surprising-stats-about-klein-attorney/

    ReplyDelete
  44. Thank you a bunch for sharing this with all of us you actually realize what you are talking about! Bookmarked. Please also seek advice from my site browse around this website

    ReplyDelete
  45. Much obliged to you for sharing this, it's a fabulous article. I'm eager to peruse a greater amount of your work.
    http://andersongrrk120.wpsuo.com/20-fun-facts-about-can-you-claim-a-car-loss-on-your-taxes

    ReplyDelete
  46. สำหรับผู้ที่ชื่นชอบภาพยนตร์ และผู้ชมทุกท่าน ที่ชื่นชอบ ดูหนังใหม่ ซีรีย์ที่ชื่นชอบในการรับชมภาพยนตร์ ซีรีย์ ดูซีรีย์ออนไลน์ อัพเดทใหม่ตลอดทั้งเดือน

    ReplyDelete