AE Grant Showcase 2023: Empathy Interpretive Signage – Caring for Care Staff – Empathy Through Enriched Experiences

This grant presentation featured three zoos: Como Park Zoo, ZooMontana, and Red River Zoo. Como Park Zoo present on their project, “Empathy Focused Interpretive Signage,” which was a project that rewrote interpretive plans using the empathy-based ROADMAP resources. In addition, CPZC redesigned the interpretive volunteer training program to deliver high quality empathy-based interpretation. (1:00-23:00)

ZooMontana present on their project, “Caring for Our Care Staff,” that provided digital resources for their animal care staff to learn and explore what empathy means in the context of zoological practices and professional relationships. (23:00-34:56)

Red River Zoo present on their project, “Fostering Empathy Through Enriched Experiences.” This hybrid research–staff development project evaluated the effects of enriched experiences on animal behavior, and subsequently, the effect that these more active and engaged animals have on guests’ attitudes toward animals, their perception of animal well-being, and their intent to take caring action. (34:56-55:26)