THE USE OF WILD ANIMALS IN MUSEUM EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES
THE USE OF WILD ANIMALS IN MUSEUM EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES
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Issue Date
1998
Authors
Petersen , Susan I.
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Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine the use of live wild animals in natural history museum educational programs and review their effectiveness in such programs. Research for this project includes an examination of family visitors in natural history museums and the impact live animals have on their learning experience. The project also examines how the handling techniques of the docent or presenter can add to or detract from the family32 visitor's educational experience and reinforce or undermine the museum's institutional message.
The product of this research project is a booklet which offers suggestions to museum educators on how to respectfully handle wild animals in front of visitors. This booklet targets natural history museum educators and education directors who develop and direct public programs that utilize wild animals. The booklet offers suggestions as to how presenters can respectfully and appropriately handle animals in front of the public. This aspect of teaching through modeling appropriate behavior toward animals is very important. The museum needs to send the strongest and most complete message to the visitor, whether it is to promote conservation, preservation, or respect for wildlife. Additionally, the booklet informs the handler about the natural behavior of different wildlife species and explains the reasons why wild animals need to be treated and handled using different methods from those used for domestic animals.