University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Poster Gallery
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Creation Date
Spring 2017
Major
Recreation and Park Administration
Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Michael J. Bradley
Mentor Department
Recreation and Park Administration
Abstract
In January 2017, Students from Eastern Kentucky University traveled to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC) to research how visitors interacted with interpretive stations. GSTC staff sought recommendations for increasing effectiveness of the existing interpretive center based on survey results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of interpretive stations, guided programs, educational programs, and self-guided tours for all visitors to the GSTC.GSTC Staff and an EKU professor designed a survey to measure perceived levels of interaction at each interpretive station. Students facilitated a literature review to find other similar facilities that recently redesigned exhibits or interpretive components to aid in understanding the facility and identifying interpretive best practices. Researchers perceived groups of visitors understood the mechanics and physically interacted with the numbered stations, noting that no specific changes were needed in that respect. Researchers noted that older adults tend to stay longer and thoroughly read the signage, while younger adults and children spent less time at each station and rushed to the hospital area of the facility. This study identified the need for more research into the correlation between the amount of time spent interacting with a station and memory recall of the presented information.
