The benefits of collaborative zoo exhibit design through action research

ABSTRACT This article summarizes a research study on the iterative redesign of a zoo exhibit that focused on engaging families in the learning of science to help shift their real-world conservation practices at home. This action research study, completed at the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, New York, with three zoo education staff members and a researcher, utilized participant interviews, a data collection protocol of exhibit use, and follow-up phone calls. Data were analyzed using qualitative coding methods and grounded theory. A working grounded theory was utilized to guide the iterative redesign of the exhibit. Findings explore how guests engaged with the exhibit, how they were impacted, and in what ways they shifted conservation practices at home.