Spotlighting Species: An Evaluation of a Zoo Conservation Education Program (Poster 26)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Thursday 1:45 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Exploring Pathways to Sustainability: Student Engagement, Environmental Literacy, and Conservation Initiatives

Abstract

In 2023, {ZOO NAME] developed an education program designed called Conservation Spotlight to increase knowledge about the zoo’s conservation work and excitement towards conservation. This program was evaluated using both visitor observations during the program and surveys after the program. Survey results suggested that the program was effective at increasing visitor understanding about how the zoo saves wildlife and increasing positive emotions towards conservation. Observations indicated that the programs were more effective at promoting conservation-related dialogue than traditional animal talks and demonstrations. These results suggest that zoos may more effectively meet their conservation education goals and strengthen guest message retention by narrowing the scope of their interpersonal programmatic activities and content.

Authors

• Nichole Nageotte, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

• Julianne Wadell, Denver Zoological Foundation

• Brittany Frederick, Denver Zoo