The Effects of an Interpretive Center on Knowledge and Attitudes of Grassland Habitats at Prairie State Park

Environmental programs can be helpful in promoting support and appreciation for the conservation of prairie habitat. This study was designed to examine the effects of an interpretive center on knowledge and attitudes of grassland habitats at Prairie State Park. Participants for the survey were visitors at Prairie State Park Visitor Center in Barton County, Missouri. A participant questionnaire was designed to obtain demographic information and assess knowledge of grassland habitats and attitudes towards the support for prairie restoration. The study showed that visitors who watched the video in the visitor's center scored significantly higher on the knowledge questions than those who did not. Knowledge scores were significantly higher for males than females. Both knowledge and attitude scores for visitors with graduate degrees were significantly higher then for those with less education. Those visitors who participated in programs rated the visitor center, staff and park significantly higher than those who did not participate in programs. The study offered information on how a self-guided interpretive center would be most beneficial in educating visitors about tallgrass prairie. The results further emphasize the importance of evaluating programs to insure that programs have a positive effect on the attitudes and behavior of the audience.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Biology

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Biology

Year

2003

Author dc:creator

• Hoffman, Michelle L.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Janice Greene

• Biology

Statement dc:rights

• © Michelle L. Hoffman

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/1219

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-2220