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An exploratory study of factors influencing zoo educator message communication

Zelak, Katheryn, Zelak

Abstract Details

2018, Master of Science, Ohio State University, Agricultural and Extension Education.
In recent decades, the world has faced an abundance of environmental problems, such as an increase in frequency and severity of natural disasters and widespread pollution. With this comes the need for an engaged public that is educated and active in advocating for pro-environmental policies. Environmental education institutions, such as zoos, museums, and nature centers, have an important role to play by providing visitors with programs and learning experiences that promote environmental literacy. This qualitative study explores the different factors that influence conservation messages that zoo educational personnel communicate with visitors during educational programming. These factors were examined through a case study involving zoo education personnel at a large zoo in Columbus, Ohio. Data collected for this study included focus groups, observational notes, and the researcher’s notes. Focus groups conducted as part of the study were comprised of part-time and volunteer staff. The first group had 11 participants and the second group had 6 participants. Findings from this study suggest that educators are passionate about speaking to visitors about conservation, but lack confidence in their abilities to do so. Educators expressed the need for increased institutional support from zoo administration to help build their skills as effective communicators.
Mary Rodriguez (Advisor)
Annie Specht (Committee Member)
89 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Zelak, Zelak, K. (2018). An exploratory study of factors influencing zoo educator message communication [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1524048203458515

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Zelak, Zelak, Katheryn. An exploratory study of factors influencing zoo educator message communication. 2018. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1524048203458515.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Zelak, Zelak, Katheryn. "An exploratory study of factors influencing zoo educator message communication." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2018. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1524048203458515

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)