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Zoo Talk pp 53–70Cite as

Exhibit Design

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Abstract

This chapter addresses the interactions between the exhibits (Zoo Voice) and the visitor (Visitor Voice). The first step in engaging a visitor is attracting them to an exhibit. The term exhibit is taken from the museum world where it is used to specify a stand-alone object and the display of an object within a setting. The Zoo Voice shapes the awareness of visitors and impinges on the sociocultural knowledge of the visitor. As the Zoo Voice seeks to bridge the gap between visitors and their knowledge of the natural world and the natural history of a species, the zoo incorporates elements within their exhibit designs that bring visitors closer to the animals and reflect sociocultural viewpoints. The Zoo Voice must be compelling and become the hook that captures the visitors’ interest. The space within the exhibit where the Zoo Voice captures the visitors’ interest and the Visitor Voice reflects the Zoo voice is an experiential space. All of the interactions within and between the Visitor Voice and Zoo Voice have the potential to influence a visitor’s learning. The zoo exhibit, labeling, and staff; a group member; interest in an exhibit or animal; and prior knowledge may shape the scaffolding outcome of a visitor’s knowledge.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA

    Dr. Patricia G. Patrick

  2. Institute of Education, University of London, London, England UK

    Dr. Sue Dale Tunnicliffe

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  1. Dr. Patricia G. Patrick
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  2. Dr. Sue Dale Tunnicliffe
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Patrick, P.G., Tunnicliffe, S.D. (2013). Exhibit Design. In: Zoo Talk. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-4863-7_5

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