The Evolution of Educational Graphics in Zoos

Abstract

Both the style and content of zoo graphics have evolved over the years to reflect changes in thought about what zoos should communicate to their visitors and changes in the perception of visitors' behavior. Styles of graphics have evolved through the "Ages of Graphics" to the present-day "minimal" stage of sleek, high-quality materials. Modern graphics communicate the agenda of zoos within a broad social context and are more conducive to experiential learning than are the graphics of the past. The evaluation of zoo signage has focused typically on the efficacy of a sign in communicating a direction or thought. Future evaluation needs to consider the nature of visitors' interactive experiences within the zoo setting and implement these findings in graphic designs.