Out On a Limb--Forest Canopies Science and Environmental Education Utilizing a Traveling Exhibit

Zachary Evers

Date of Award

2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Natural Sciences

First Advisor

Lowman, Margaret

Keywords

Education, Conservation, Out On a Limb

Area of Concentration

Environmental Studies

Abstract

Environmental and Science education is of the utmost importance to the health and longevity of our forests and the natural world. This environmental education thesis is on informing the public about science and the environment through the use of the "Out on a Limb -- Forest Canopies" exhibit and analyzing the effectiveness of its impact. "Out on a Limb -- Forest Canopies" is a science education exhibit developed to educate people about the forest canopies and illustrate the challenges of canopy access by scientists. A traveling rain forest diorama, touch screen information kiosk, and mock canopy walkway will circulate venues in Southwest Florida, increasing public awareness of how forest canopies are important to all life on Earth. Canopy research provides a highly visual, exploratory approach to scientific inquiry that can be effectively communicated to school groups and general public. The intellectual merit of the exhibit is to provide public education about forest biodiversity, how the treetops provide energy for all life, links between the treetops and the forest floor, and why citizens should conserve forests. This is achieved through the creation hands-on activities and curriculum related to the exhibit for school groups and other visitors, as well as the implementation of a system of metrics to track and assess the impact it has on the public. Literature on science education and methods for improving science education was also reviewed.

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