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Postoccupancy evaluations in zoological settings
Angela S Kelling1, Diann E Gaalema
1School of Psychology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia; Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. akelling5@gmail.com
Zoo Biology
|May 25, 2011
Summary
Postoccupancy evaluations (POEs) should assess zoological exhibits for animals, visitors, and staff. Comprehensive POEs ensure exhibits meet the complex needs of all users, improving animal welfare and visitor experiences.
Area of Science:
- Zoological exhibit design and evaluation
- Environmental psychology in zoo settings
- Animal welfare science
Background:
- Postoccupancy evaluations (POEs) traditionally assess human-centric built environments.
- Zoological exhibits have become complex and costly, necessitating rigorous evaluation.
- Existing research on zoo exhibit effectiveness is limited and fragmented across user groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for the adaptation and application of POEs in zoological settings.
- To emphasize the need for comprehensive evaluations considering animals, visitors, and staff.
- To highlight the potential of POEs to improve zoo exhibit design and functionality.
Main Methods:
- Systematic assessment of the built environment post-occupation.
- Focus on evaluating effectiveness for multiple user groups: animals, visitors, and staff.
- Review of existing methodologies and research gaps in zoo exhibit studies.
Main Results:
- Current POE research in zoological settings is limited, particularly concerning non-primate animals and zoo staff.
- Divergent methodologies and outcome definitions hinder comparative analysis in animal and visitor studies.
- A comprehensive POE approach is crucial for understanding the multifaceted impact of exhibit design.
Conclusions:
- POEs are essential tools for ensuring zoological exhibits meet the needs of animals, visitors, and staff.
- Integrating animal, visitor, and staff perspectives in POEs can enhance exhibit success.
- Dissemination of POE findings is vital for informing future zoo exhibit design and improving overall zoo operations.
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