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Peer-reviewed article

Conservation Learning in Wildlife Tourism Settings: Lessons from Research in Zoos and Aquariums

July 1, 2007 | Public Programs, Exhibitions

Zoos and aquariums have shifted their focus over recent years, taking a much more active role in wildlife conservation and in promoting conservation learning among their visitors. Research in these settings provides a valuable foundation for the emerging field of non-captive wildlife tourism. In particular, valuable lessons regarding the potential impact of wildlife encounters on visitors' conservation attitudes and behaviour can be drawn from research in zoos and aquariums. This paper explores those aspects of wildlife encounters that appear to contribute most to conservation learning. These include observing animals in their 'natural' environment; opportunities for close encounters with wildlife; opportunities to observe animal behaviour; engaging visitors emotionally; connecting with visitors' prior knowledge and experiences; using persuasive communication; linking conservation goals and everyday actions; and providing incentives and activities to support visitors' behaviour change. The extent to which wildlife tourists may be receptive to conservation messages is also considered, in light of research in zoos and aquariums. The implications of these findings for conservation learning in the context of non-captive wildlife tourism are discussed and suggestions for future research in this area are made. Several methodological challenges facing the field are also discussed.

TEAM MEMBERS

  • R. Ballantyne
    Author
    University of Queensland
  • J. Packer
    Author
    University of Queensland
  • K. Hughes
    Author
    University of Queensland
  • 2013 11 21 Dierking photo
    Author
    Institute for Learning Innovation
  • Citation

    ISSN : 1350-4622
    DOI : 10.1080/13504620701430604
    Publication Name: Environmental Education Research
    Volume: 13
    Number: 3
    Page Number: 367
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: Ecology, forestry, and agriculture | Education and learning science
    Audience: General Public | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals | Evaluators
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Aquarium and Zoo Programs | Exhibitions | Aquarium and Zoo Exhibits

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