Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Research in zoos'

Zoological gardens, or zoos, keep and display wild animals, mainly for the purposes of education, conservation and biological research. However, it is evident that a significant component of zoos is the vast number of people who visit them, since without the support of visitors, zoos would not be financially viable and would cease to exist. This research investigates the behaviours of these visitors and develops an understanding of their awareness relating to what they see and do while they are in the zoo, along with their motivations for visiting. The study focuses on two major metropolitan zoos in Australia: Adelaide (in South Australia) and Taronga (in Sydney, New South Wales). A brief historical account contextualises changes, raising awareness of the significance of visitors to the livelihood of zoos. More and more zoos are integrating into their management routines different programmes that relate to the care and welfare of the animals. Despite recent growth in scientific attention, which has focused on human-animal relationships, little research has been conducted relating to the human visitor in the zoo. To date, decisions made by administrators have been based upon assumptions of the visitors’ understanding of the work of zoos rather than on actual quantitative findings. This empirical research is significant in that it uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to appraise factual data and information. The data from unobtrusive tracking observations at different exhibits, combined with the results of questionnaire surveys, are used to explore and assess the perceptions of visitors. In developing a demographic profile of the people who visit zoos, this work considers the motivations and the frequency of visitors. Various factors that influence the viewing patterns of visitors are explored to assess the popularity of exhibits, and the perceptions of visitors relating to animals and enclosures are investigated, to assess the diverse levels of satisfaction. Case studies explore the perceptions and understandings of visitors towards the use of enrichment items, the use of signs and labels, and a hypothetical approach to the feeding of carnivores in zoos. The results are important in that they contribute essential knowledge that describes the perceptions of a wide range of people who visit zoos, along with their expectations, since it is crucial for these institutions to maintain their popularity with the public.

Doctor of Philosophy
Zoological gardens, or zoos, keep and display wild animals, mainly for the purposes of education, conservation and biological research. However, it is evident that a significant component of zoos is the vast number of people who visit them, since without the support of visitors, zoos would not be financially viable and would cease to exist. This research investigates the behaviours of these visitors and develops an understanding of their awareness relating to what they see and do while they are in the zoo, along with their motivations for visiting. The study focuses on two major metropolitan zoos in Australia: Adelaide (in South Australia) and Taronga (in Sydney, New South Wales). A brief historical account contextualises changes, raising awareness of the significance of visitors to the livelihood of zoos. More and more zoos are integrating into their management routines different programmes that relate to the care and welfare of the animals. Despite recent growth in scientific attention, which has focused on human-animal relationships, little research has been conducted relating to the human visitor in the zoo. To date, decisions made by administrators have been based upon assumptions of the visitors’ understanding of the work of zoos rather than on actual quantitative findings. This empirical research is significant in that it uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to appraise factual data and information. The data from unobtrusive tracking observations at different exhibits, combined with the results of questionnaire surveys, are used to explore and assess the perceptions of visitors. In developing a demographic profile of the people who visit zoos, this work considers the motivations and the frequency of visitors. Various factors that influence the viewing patterns of visitors are explored to assess the popularity of exhibits, and the perceptions of visitors relating to animals and enclosures are investigated, to assess the diverse levels of satisfaction. Case studies explore the perceptions and understandings of visitors towards the use of enrichment items, the use of signs and labels, and a hypothetical approach to the feeding of carnivores in zoos. The results are important in that they contribute essential knowledge that describes the perceptions of a wide range of people who visit zoos, along with their expectations, since it is crucial for these institutions to maintain their popularity with the public.

The behaviour of zoo animals can come to anticipate temporally predictable feeding times. However, there is a lack of consensus over the effects of such routines on behaviour and welfare. Few studies have been published in this area, perhaps in part due to methodological challenges. The current programme of work therefore aimed to extend knowledge on the effect of predictable feeding routines, and to develop a suitable methodology to overcome challenges. Prior to predictable feeding, tigers showed patterns of increased ‘active’ behaviours such as locomotion and pacing, and decreased inactivity. Geckos also showed increased ‘active’ behaviours such as locomotion and ‘stationary but moving head’ prior to predictable, compared to unpredictable feeding times, with significant differences between conditions (RSS = 0.059 and 0.047, p < .05). However, anticipatory patterns were not demonstrated for meerkats, which highlighted that other environmental factors may affect an animal’s response to temporal predictability (such as obtaining other food during the day, or signalled predictability). Studying patterns of behavioural change over time requires long periods of observation which is often not possible for researchers. The current programme of work argues that a measure which can be reliably used by many, relatively untrained observers is necessary to study predictability. The measure of ‘busyness’, a subjective rating of animal behaviour, was tested for reliability and validity. Busyness ratings showed good inter-observer reliability (ICC > .72) and correlated with traditional measures of behaviour. Busyness ratings demonstrated clear patterns related to feeding time and gave a useful compound measure of behavioural change. The use of multiple observers was extended to a citizen science approach, where useful data on anticipation in fish were obtained from aquarium visitors using a touch screen. The current programme of work successfully investigated the effects of predictable feeding routines on patterns of animal behaviour, alongside the development of suitable methods. The qualitative techniques developed here offer potential to increase the data obtained in future research into predictability and many other topics.

The link between cognitive challenge and captive animal well-being has received increased interest over the past decade, but so far this link in zoo animals has been overlooked. This is particularly surprising for chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) because these two 'large-brained' species have been the subjects of intensive cognitive research in captivity over the past six decades. In this thesis, I ask whether novel maze-like devices which aim to be cognitively challenging (abbreviated to 'devices with a cognitive component', DCCs) can be enriching for a mixed-sex group of chimpanzees and two single-sex groups of dolphins housed in zoos. I design, implement and evaluate two DCCs, and employ a new definition of cognitive enrichment that incorporates cognitive challenge and indicators of positive well-being. I demonstrate that two types of DCC for chimpanzees, one constructed from a grid of transparent cells and one from an array of opaque pipes, could be mastered using a number of problem-solving strategies (Chapter 5 and 6). DCC-use by chimpanzees increased when the DCC was less predictable (Chapter 5), but the relationship between self-directed behaviour and cognitive challenge was not straightforward (Chapter 6). In dolphins, only male subjects used an underwater DCC constructed from an array of opaque pipes, and could reflect a general sex difference in response to a novel situation (Chapter 7). In general, the chimpanzees and dolphins groups I studied showed some signs of enhanced well-being, for example increased environmental exploration and play, during exposure to DCCs. However, other behavioural responses such as increased vigilance in dolphins were difficult to interpret and did not suggest that DCCs were enriching. Both species 'worked' in the absence of food rewards and their success on the tasks (i.e. the removal of food or non-food rewards) had little effect on wellbeing indicators (Chapter 5 - 7). Finally, I demonstrate that lateralised behaviour (preference to perform behaviour using one side of the body) can be incorporated into the study of cognitive enrichment (Chapter 8).

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Outra
Wildlife conservation has been standing out on the world stage as one of the major issues of our time. Several institutions are mobilizing to develop effective strategies and actions to prevent the extinction of endangered species. Among these institutions, we remark the performance of zoos in the development of scientific research and educational activities, participation in endangered species programs, and promotion of entertainment for the visitors, thus compiling its four main attributions. In that sense, the São Paulo Zoo, besides performing its traditional role, including several educational activities, also participates and integrates endangered species conservation programs, such as the Black Lion Tamarin Conservation Program (Leontopithecus chrysopygus), conducting research about biology and ecology of populations from Floresta Nacional de Capão Bonito (Capão Bonito National Forest, São Paulo State). In this context, we developed in the present work a participatory educational process for planning and implementation of a space that educates at São Paulo Zoo about the black lion tamarin conservation. The research was conducted in a qualitative approach based on a participatory framework and using the participatory-actionresearch as a critical environmental education framework, intended to produce knowledge (research scope) to develop and implement a space that educates (action scope) from the participation of 23 professionals and 65 visitors (participation scope). In that sense, the research presents a procedural nature and was developed in four stages: Moment I - participatory diagnosis of the knowledge about the black lion tamarin from conducting individual interviews with São Paulo Zoo professionals and visitors; Moment II - two focal groups with the staff of the Zoo’s Education and Diffusion Division (DED) and Technical Team (ET) to elaborate the educational space proposal; Moment III: dialogue between the Zoo’s DED, ET, Engineering Division and Administrative Board for the space that educates implementation; Moment IV: reflexive analysis of the elaboration and implementation processes from focal groups with DED and ET, and participatory creation of manuals for the space. From the data obtained in the Moment I, it was possible to establish categories related to the structures and educational actions that would be implemented in the space that educates, which emerged from the dialogic process established between the participants and the researcher. Based on these categories, during the Moment II an educational proposal was developed containing the structural and educational features of the new space, consisting of four thematic kiosks, 23 panels, two educational games and a puppets theatre play about the species. In the Moment III, we observed a stronger participation of the São Paulo Zoo Technical Team at various stages of the implementation process, from the elaboration of visual and textual communication elements, to the building processes. In addition, as a consequence of this strengthening, the participants suggested and developed, in a participatory way, two manuals about the space aimed for environmental educators. Finally, during the Moment IV we observed that the use of participatory methodologies contributed to improve and strengthen the development of the space that educates, once the participants came to be regarded as subjects who share bonds to interpret the reality, and the dialogue established is linked to collective action in order to transform the socio-environmental problem in question, namely, the conservation of the black lion tamarin. We hope that the present research will contribute to the field of environmental education research in zoos and also to black lion tamarin conservation strategies, since it highlights the fact that it is possible to perform a participatory, reflective, cooperative and liberating practice.
A conservação da fauna silvestre vem se destacando no cenário mundial como uma das maiores problemáticas da atualidade. Diversas instituições estão se mobilizando para elaborar estratégias e ações eficazes para evitar a extinção de espécies ameaçadas. Dentre essas instituições, observamos a atuação dos zoológicos no desenvolvimento de pesquisas científicas, na participação em programas de conservação de espécies ameaçadas, na elaboração de ações educativas e na promoção do lazer e entretenimento do público visitante, compilando as suas quatro principais missões. Nesse contexto, a Fundação Parque Zoológico de São Paulo (FPZSP), além de realizar uma série de ações educativas com o público visitante, também participa e integra programas de conservação de espécies ameaçadas, como o Programa Estadual de Conservação do Mico-leãopreto (Leontopithecus chrysopygus), desenvolvendo pesquisas sobre a biologia e a ecologia de algumas populações da Floresta Nacional de Capão Bonito (SP). Sendo assim, o objetivo da presente pesquisa foi desenvolver um processo educativo participativo para a elaboração e implementação de um espaço educador na FPZSP, visando à conservação do mico-leão-preto. A pesquisa foi desenvolvida em uma abordagem qualitativa, com base nos pressupostos da educação ambiental crítica, especificamente da Pesquisa-Ação-Participante, uma vez que teve a intenção de produzir conhecimento (âmbito da pesquisa) para planejar e implementar um espaço educador (âmbito da ação) a partir do envolvimento e participação de 23 profissionais e 65 visitantes da FPZSP (âmbito da participação). Nesse sentido, a investigação apresentou um caráter processual e foi desenvolvida em quatro momentos: Momento I: diagnóstico participativo sobre conhecimentos e saberes em relação à espécie a partir da realização de entrevistas individuais com os profissionais e visitantes da FPZSP; Momento II: realização de dois grupos focais com a equipe da Divisão de Educação e Difusão (DED) e Equipe Técnica (ET) para elaboração participativa da proposta educativa do espaço; Momento III: atuação e diálogo entre a DED, ET, Divisão de Engenharia e Diretoria Administrativa para a implementação do espaço educador; Momento IV: análise reflexiva do processo de elaboração e implementação a partir de grupos focais com a equipe da DED e ET e criação participativa de materiais educativos sobre o espaço educador. A partir dos dados obtidos no Momento I foi possível estabelecer categorias relacionadas às estruturas e às ações educativas que seriam implementadas no espaço educador, as quais emergiram do processo dialógico estabelecido entre os participantes e a mestranda. Com base nessas categorias, elaboramos no Momento II uma proposta educativa contendo as características estruturais e educativas do novo espaço, o qual foi constituído por quatro quiosques temáticos, 23 painéis, dois jogos educativos e uma peça teatral de fantoches sobre a espécie. No Momento III da pesquisa, observamos o fortalecimento da participação da equipe técnica da FPZSP em diversas etapas do processo de implementação, desde a elaboração da comunicação visual e textual dos elementos educativos, até os processos operacionais de construção de estruturas. Além disso, a partir desse fortalecimento, a própria equipe participante sugeriu e elaborou, de forma participativa, dois materiais educativos sobre o espaço educador destinados à educadoras/es ambientais. Por fim, observamos durante o Momento IV que o uso de metodologias participativas contribuiu para enriquecer e fortalecer o processo de elaboração do espaço educador, uma vez que os participantes passaram a ser considerados como sujeitos que partilham laços para interpretar a realidade, de forma que esse diálogo está vinculado à ação coletiva para transformação da problemática socioambiental em questão, qual seja, a conservação do mico-leão-preto. Esperamos que a investigação contribua para o campo da pesquisa em educação ambiental em zoológicos e para as estratégias de conservação do mico-leão-preto, ao ressaltar que é possível realizar uma prática participativa, reflexiva, cooperativa e libertadora.

Zoological institutions emphasise the importance of excelling in the areas of animal welfare, conservation, education, and research, not only to better the lives of the animals under their care, but to also influence the general population in the pursuit to conserve the natural world. As a result, zoo life is anything but simple. This research project monitored the lives of a captive group of chimpanzees over a two-and-a-half-year period, during which time we explored four research topics while assessing the development of a cognitive research programme and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) introductions in a zoo: welfare, cognition, public engagement with science, and animal management. The project’s use of touchscreen technology and on-exhibit research was the first of its kind for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh Zoo. As a result, the researchers placed a great deal of importance not only on assessing the welfare of the chimpanzees throughout training and testing phases, but also assessing the public’s perception of cognitive research being conducted through an internationally broadcast documentary about the project. In the short duration of the project, these research naïve chimpanzees did not fully grasp the concept of video selection in our free-choice activity, but overall, the introduction of a cognitive research programme did not compromise welfare, and the chimpanzees’ repeated interest suggests that chimpanzees found the research to be reinforcing. Partly funded by the BBC, the Chimpcam Project was shown in the UK (broadcast January 2010) and in a variety of other countries, including the United States and Canada (on Animal Planet in 2011). The broadcast allowed us to gather information over the internet on the wider public’s perception of conducting research with great apes in zoos, to complement data collected on visitors to the exhibit itself. Our assessment of the documentary’s impact on public perception showed that it had a positive influence on perceptions of zoo research, scientists, welfare, and the importance of choice for animals. During this research project, a new group of chimpanzees arrived in Edinburgh as part of the international breeding programme for western chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus). As the zoo’s focus switched to helping the two chimpanzee groups merge into one, we took the opportunity to apply psychological research to this context, namely the use of video as a research tool and the recognition of the importance of individual differences in response to challenge. The project maintained the cognition and welfare focus by using video introductions (allowing the chimpanzees to watch video footage of the individuals they were about to meet and track the formation of other sub-groups). In addition, personality ratings and chimpanzee behaviour during the visual access period (an animal management technique used prior to physical introductions where the groups could see each other without physical contact) were collected to examine the efficacy of these measures in guiding introductions in order to reduce risk. Personality ratings and behaviours observed during the video introductions could predict the chimpanzees’ behaviour during the physical introductions, however, the visual access period had no predictive power. The welfare implications of the introduction process were also assessed and suggested that: the choice of location (i.e. options of where to be) was more important than the total amount of available space; having individuals removed from your group was more stressful than having individuals added; self-directed behaviour (SDB) performance was context-specific where rubbing significantly increased during periods of uncertainty that were not necessarily negatively valenced; regurgitation and reingestion (R/R) decreased over time; and both in-group members and those of high ranks spent more time grooming others. Overall our data indicate that the chimpanzees coped well with both cognitive challenges and social upheaval during introductions. Despite being regularly studied in captivity and in the wild, chimpanzees have a great deal more to teach us about their world. In order to provide the best welfare for the chimpanzees in our care, we need to understand how research and management practices affect their lives and how the public interpret what we do as researchers. By understanding these aspects of their world, we can better serve those in captivity and influence public opinion on the importance of conserving those in the wild.

An increased understanding of species-specific behavioral needs has lead zoos to focus on providing more naturalistic and stimulating environments. Scientific assessments of how changes in habitat affect animal behavior are necessary in improving overall animal welfare. This study examined the move of three orangutans housed at the Oregon Zoo into a new and innovative exhibit. Post-occupancy evaluation (POE), which offers systematic information regarding the success or failure of the built environment (Maple & Finlay, 1987), was utilized to effectively evaluate the results of the move. The collection of behavioral data and adrenal activity monitoring through collection of non-invasive saliva, urine and hair provided a comprehensive methodology for comparing changes in behavior and physiological functioning. Behavioral results showed that following the move to the new enclosure animals spent less time inactive, more time at higher elevations and utilized exhibit structures at a greater frequency. Hormonal results suggest that detection of cortisol in orangutan hair could be a useful tool for monitoring chronic stress.

This study examines the ways in which public participation in the production of scientific knowledge, influences the practices and expertise of the scientists in Galaxy Zoo, an online Big Data citizen science initiative. The need for citizen science in the field of Astronomy arose in response to the challenges of rapid advances in data gathering technologies, which demanded pattern recognition capabilities that were too advanced for existing computer algorithms. To address these challenges, Galaxy Zoo scientists recruited volunteers through their online website, a strategy which proved to be remarkably reliable and efficient. In doing so, they opened up the boundaries of scientific processes to the public. This shift has led to important outcomes in terms of the scientific discovery of new Astronomical objects; the creation and refining of scientific practices; and the development of new forms of expertise among key actors while they continue to pursue their scientific goals. This thesis attempts to answer the over-arching research question: How is citizen science shaping the practices and expertise of Galaxy Zoo scientists? The emergence of new practices and development of the expertise in the domain of managing citizen science projects were observed through following the work of the Galaxy Zoo scientists and in particular the Principal Investigator and the project's Technical Lead, from February 2010 to April 2013. A broadly ethnographic approach was taken, which allowed the study to be sensitive to the uncertainty and unprecedented events that characterised the development of Galaxy Zoo as a pioneering project in the field of data-intensive citizen science. Unstructured interviewing was the major source of data on the work of the PI and TL; while the communication between these participants, the broader Science Team and their inter-institutional collaborators was captured through analyses of the team emailing list, their official blog and their social media posts. The process of data analysis was informed by an initial conceptualisation of Galaxy Zoo as a knowledge production system and the concept of knowledge object (Knorr-Cetina,1999), as an unfolding epistemic entity, became a primary analytical tool. Since the direction and future of Galaxy Zoo involved addressing new challenges, the study demanded periodic recursive analysis of the conceptual framework and the knowledge objects of both Galaxy Zoo and the present examination of its development. The key findings were as follows. The involvement of public volunteers shaped the practices of the Science Team, while they pursued robust scientific outcomes. Changes included: negotiating collaborations; designing the classification tasks for the volunteers; re-examining data reduction methods and data release policies; disseminating results; creating new epistemic communities; and science communication. In addition, new kinds of expertise involved in running Galaxy Zoo were identified. The relational and adaptive aspects of expertise were seen as important. It was therefore proposed that the development of the expertise in running citizen science projects should be recognised as a domain-expertise in its own right. In Galaxy Zoo, the development of the expertise could be attributed to a combined understanding of: the design principles of doing good science; innovation in methods; and creating a dialogic space for scientists and volunteers. The empirical and theoretical implications of this study therefore lie in (i) identifying emergent practices in citizen science while prioritising scientific knowledge production and (ii) a re-examination of expertise for science in the emerging context of data-intensive science.

碩士
國立臺灣科技大學
機械工程系
96
This research is to develop a stress analysis method for a novel zoom lens system with a soft polymer materials, PDMS(Polydimethyslsiloxane). This analysis method can predict deformation of elastmer and effective focal length (EFL) of soft PDMS lens after activating by pneumatic pressure. In order to construct the numerical stress analysis method, a detailed characterization of PDMS property is required. The research first focuses on the test of mechanical and optical properties of PDMS, including Young’s modulus, refractive index and Abbe number. Then the lens profile and soft zoom lens system can be designed. Deformation of PDMS lens can by analyzed by ANSYS with materials parameters and lens design model. Finally, the soft PDMS lens is fabricated and assembled into zoom system to measure the deformation and EFL. From experimental results, the error of deformation between simulation and experiments is below 15% and the EFL of soft zoom lens with PDMS plano-convex lens can change from 63.46 mm to 112.87mm as the pressure activated from 0 to 0.0125MPa. Future work can integrate the design of soft PDMS lens into the lens of mobile phones and cameras, as well as the imagine system of minis devices.

碩士
大葉大學
事業經營研究所碩士在職專班
95
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is an analytical technique that com-bines the technology and experience of people in identifying foreseeable failure modes of a product or process and planning for its elimination. FMEA attempts to detect the potential product-related or process-related failure modes. The technique is used to an-ticipate cause of failure and prevent them from happening. FMEA uses occurrence and detection probability criteria in conjunction with sever-ity criteria to develop risk prioritization numbers for prioritization of corrective action consideration. The use of FMEA in both the product and process areas of manufacturing is more important today than it has ever been. This thesis is a practical application, which applies FMEA technique to the manu-facture process to a new product of zoom lens mold. In FMEA process, we identify the potential failure (risk) mode of the zoom lens mold development and quantify its risk by evaluating its corresponding the possibility of occurrence, its impact if risk occurred, and its detect ability. Then we calculate each risk priority number (RPN), and develop the correct action for the high RPN modes. By applying FMEA to the zoom lens mold development, some conclusions are discussed and the database of results of is con-structed.

碩士
義守大學
資訊管理學系
102
The study aims to understand and explore customer’s perceived value, satisfaction and willingness to revisit for Kaohsiung Zoo as well as the relationship among the three. By randomly sampling 298 visitors in Kaohsiung Shoushan Zoo, the study uses modified perceived value scale, satisfaction scale and willingness to revisit scale as measurement tools. With statistics methods, such as statistics description, reliability analysis, factor analysis, t-test, one way ANOVA, Pearson related and stepwise regression, the study analyzes the results and find: (1) Visitors of Kaohsiung Shoushan Zoo felt good in terms of customer perceived value, satisfaction and willingness to revisit. (2) It is statistically significant for tourists with different age and different level of education in terms of customer perceived value. (3) It is statistically significant for tourists with different monthly income, marital status, age, sex, level of education and occupation in terms of customer satisfaction. (4) Customer perceived value has significant impact on visitors’ satisfaction and willingness to revisit; in return, customer satisfaction has significant impact on their willingness to revisit. In line with the results, the study proposals that Kaohsiung Zoo operators improve visitors’ overall value and satisfaction and therefore enhance their willingness to revisit by strengthening and improving parks service and landscape maintenance, enhancing staff education and training, and combining other travel packages.

The management of the Johannesburg Zoo is currently attempting to 'turnaround' the entity. Being a part of the team that assisted the Johannesburg Zoo to formulate its business plan in 2004, the researcher developed an affiliation to the zoo and was motivated to assist management with their efforts by conducting this study. The major problem identified for the Johannesburg Zoo was that of how to secure the support of current patrons and increase patronage particularly in respect of the increasing support of alternate entertainment offerings. The study employed structured open-ended questionnaires to collect data from selected patrons and employees of the zoo. The findings of the study, following the literature review and analysis of findings from the field, resulted in a number of conclusions. First, the researcher realized that the Johannesburg Zoo has experienced a 'decline and crisis' phase in previous years. Happily, the researcher also discovered that there were triggers for changes that encouraged the formulation of a recovery strategy. The researcher has used these very triggers to offer robust recommendations to revitalize the zoo in terms of the product offering, marketing, financial and operational initiatives.
Thesis (M.B.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2006.

碩士
國立臺南大學
應用數學系數學科教學碩士班
102
This study aimed to examine the remedial teaching process and effects of application of interactive whiteboard teaching by using zoom in and zoom out pictures for the sixth graders. The concepts of zoom in and zoom out pictures in this research are "Understanding of zoom in and zoom out pictures ", " The relative relationship of zoom in and out pictures ", " Making zoom in and zoom out pictures ", " The area change of zoom in and zoom out pictures ." The subjects came from the students in the 6th grade of one private Elementary School the researcher works in Tainan city . The researcher conducted interviews based on the pretest performance of the three cases to understand the reasons of misconceptions and not mastery learning. Four self-designed remedial teaching activities of using interactive whiteboards are provided for five lessons including "Gulliver's Travels", "Corresponding master", " Change Change Change", "Seeing is believing". Methods of data collection include the performance of pre-test and post-test of conceptual learning measured by zoom in and out pictures, interviews, teaching reflection records, process of teaching records, mathematics journals. The major conclusions drawn from this study are as follows: 1. The uses of built-in function include "Geometry of resources", "Measuring tools", "Assessment tool", "Screen recording" in interactive whiteboards and Notebook 11 software are able to improve students' interest and learning motivation in learning process, and there is a significant effect of teaching reflection for teachers. 2. The remedial teaching activities of interactive whiteboards integrating into zoom in and zoom out pictures have a significant improving on children learning effectiveness. Suggestions and reference for application of teaching media and integration of geometry into interactive whiteboards for future studies were presented.

Dissertação de Mestrado em Evolução e Biologia Humana, apresentada ao Departamento de Ciências da Vida da Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade de Coimbra.
Environment enrichment (EE) is a recent concept. However its recognition had been considerably increasing and its practice has been branching out, adapting it for each particular species. We can define environment enrichment as a practice aiming to grant improved conditions to captive animals, as it develops behavioural opportunities to mimic wild life. Implementation of many varieties of enrichment is now a standard routine worldwide in recovery centers, zoos and laboratories, as also public opinion demand better conditions for animals and law stipulate its practice. The aim of this study is to test if individuals of three non-human primate species at Maia’s Zoo (gibbons, N=2; Mona monkeys, N=2; brown lemurs, N=2) need environmental enrichment ad if the devices implemented reduce boredom and apathy, symptoms that captive animals are more prom to. The apparatus here presented acts as a cognitive stimulus and feeding enrichment. Also, to prove its applicability the type of enrichment device chosen must be easy, simple and inexpensive to build. With this in mind, the feeding devices given to the subjects of this study consist in food-filed small pieces of bamboo canes and a wire box filled with fruits and straw. The results of the present study show that the subjects did indeed need EE intervention, as inactivity was reduced in the three groups and abnormal behaviours was decreased in brown lemurs. It is clear that the effect of an enriching foraging strategy depends on the species and its individuals’ personalities, which are important aspects that should be taken into account when designed and maintained EE programs. EE technique should be planned according to the expected effect and at the same time, we must provide opportunities for the animals to manipulate the devices and choose when to do that. Enrichment effect may not be immediate so we must be ‘patient’ with its use. Future projects should include a larger number of individuals.
O enriquecimento ambiental é um conceito recente. No entanto, o seu reconhecimento foi aumentando consideravelmente e sua prática foi ramificando-se, adaptando-se para cada espécie em particular. O enriquecimento ambiental tem como objetivo conceder melhores condições para animais em cativeiro, desenvolvendo oportunidades para aproximar o comportamento destes ao comportamento natural das espécies em habitat natural. Muitas variedades de enriquecimento são agora uma rotina em centros de recuperação, zoológicos e laboratórios a nível mundial, à medida que a opinião pública exige melhores condições para os animais e a lei estipula a sua prática. O objetivo deste estudo é testar se os indivíduos de três espécies de primatas não-humanos no Zoo da Maia (Gibões (N = 2), macacos Mona (N = 2) e lémures castanhos (N = 2)) precisam de enriquecimento ambiental, assim como se os dispositivos implementados pelo estudo reduziram o tédio e apatia, sintomas que aos quais os animais de cativeiro são expostos. Os dispositivos apresentados aqui atuam como um estímulo cognitivo e enriquecimento alimentar. Além disso, para provar a sua aplicabilidade, o tipo de dispositivo de enriquecimento escolhido deve ser fácil, simples e barato de construir. Com isto em mente, o dispositivo de alimentação dado aos indivíduos neste estudo consiste pequenos pedaços de canas de bambu enchidos com pasta alimentar e uma caixa de arame com frutas e palha. Os resultados do presente estudo mostram que os sujeitos necessitam de intervenção de enriquecimento ambiental, sendo que a inatividade foi reduzida nos três grupos e os comportamentos anormais diminuíram nos lémures castanhos. Torna-se claro que o efeito de uma estratégia enriquecedora de alimentação depende da espécie e da personalidades de seus indivíduos, aspetos importantes que devem ser tomados em conta quando concebidos e mantidos este género de programas. A técnica deve ser planejada de acordo com o efeito esperado mas mesmo tempo, devemos dar oportunidades para os animais de escolherem quando e como manipular os dispositivos. Efeito de enriquecimento pode não ser imediato, por isso devemos ser "pacientes" com a sua utilização. Projetos futuros deverão incluir um número maior de indivíduos.

碩士
大葉大學
觀光餐旅碩士在職學位學程
103
The main purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between recreational attractions, environmental perception and revisiting willingness for Hsinchu Zoo tourists. In addition, to analyze the differences in demographics, and to discuss the relationships between them. The subjects were tourists from Hsinchu Zoo. There were 500 questionnaires sent out by using the convenient sampling method, and 458 valid questionnaires were collected. With valid response rate of 91.6%. The major findings were as follows: (1) The recreational attractions, environmental perception and revisiting willingness for Hsinchu Zoo tourists were all above the average. (2)There was a significant difference on Hsinchu Zoo tourists’ environmental perception among different educational levels and different counties of residence. (3)There was a significant difference on Hsinchu Zoo tourists’ revisiting willingness among different educational levels, different counties of residence and number of visits. (4)Recreational attractions and environmental consciousness affect Hsinchu Zoo tourists’ revisiting willingness, especially the most influential environmental perception. According the study results, some suggestions are offered to the administration institutions and further study.

This work presents study of parrot nestor kea. It is divided into two parts - theoretical and experimental part. Two chapters are dedicated to the theoretical part. This kind of parrot is connected to culture and relationship of local people. The first capture applies to enviroment in New Zealand, its inhabitants and their relationship between each other. The second chapter operates with detailed information about nestors. It's summary of available information about nestors from Czech and also foreign authors. The purpose of experimental part was to find out the possibilities of testing of cognitive abilities in conditions of zoo. We also passed the testing of cognitive abilities. We tried to define the factors that can involve the results of the testing. At the time we also suggested and proved a new system of experimental facility that can be used in our suggested future research. In the end we managed experimental testing of cognitive abilities of this kind of parrot that took place in zoo in Liberec. Key Words: nestor kea, research, cognitive abilities, zoo

碩士
佛光大學
傳播學系
102
The insectarium of Taipei zoo introduces interesting environmental knowledge to children by various kinds of exhibitive equipments, such as Operating Facilities and Touring Facilities. The purpose of the project discusses the influence of different kinds of facilities on children in schools. And also evaluates the connection of children’s background and increasing their knowledge. The research method uses questionnaire survey , There are 278 who are 4th, 5th , 6th grade students in elementary schools. According to the questionnaire survey, I got the background information, status of outside school visit, and the preference of exhibition. After processing SPSS . I have several results as below. First, there is a specific difference in the result of Touring Facilities on boys and girls. It points that got a better score of the knowledge about insect than girls did. Second, in the touring exhibition, there is significant difference in different there is result grade children of t example, the average score 6th grade children in elementary school is higher than 4th and 5th grade children. Third, there is distinct different effect between Operating Facilities and Touring Facilities for elementary school students. That is elementary school students, the learning effect of Touring Facilities is much better than Operating Facilities. Fourth, in Operating Facilities, there is significant influence of knowledge learning on different school and region. It shows that the average score of elementary school students in Taipei is higher than non- Taipei region.

Cette recherche propose comme objectif d’étudier les relations entre le carcajou et les populations locales et autochtones du Canada, dans différentes régions d’études et dans un site de conservation ex-situ. Ceci afin de mieux comprendre leurs rapports et interactions avec cet animal et de pouvoir adapter les modes de gestion de l’espèce aux besoins des sociétés mais aussi en fonction du contexte socio-culturel local. Plus particulièrement, cette étude explore d’une part les relations entre Premières Nations et le carcajou, ainsi que les perceptions et les représentations sociales que différents groupes de la société (Ainés, chasseur, trappeurs, enfants autochtones/non-autochtones) ont de cet animal, et d’autre part le rôle que joue cette espèce, en contexte de conservation ex-situ : à savoir dans un jardin zoologique, sur les connaissances et la motivation du public envers la protection du carcajou. Pour ce faire, nous avons utilisées différentes méthodes (entrevues semi-dirigées, questionnaires, dessins, observation participante) sur trois sites d’études en fonction de l’absence/présence du carcajou. Ainsi, nous avons étudié les interactions humains-carcajous dans la région North Slave dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest auprès des populations non autochtones et autochtones (les Premières Nations Dénée et Métis), où le carcajou cohabite avec les sociétés. Nous nous sommes également intéressés à la représentation du carcajou par les membres de la Nation Naskapie au Nord du Québec et de la Nation Dénée dans les Territoires du Nord-Ouest, où le carcajou n’est plus présent depuis 40 ans. Enfin, un dernier terrain au Zoo de St Félicien au Québec nous a permis d’analyser la place de ce carnivore dans la conservation ex-situ pour le public québécois. Les résultats ont mis en évidence, que les Premières Nations Dénées et Métis possèdent des connaissances très approfondies sur cet animal, qu’elles admirent et respectent, et ont souligné l’importance de la participation des populations et des savoirs traditionnels dans les projets de protection et conservation de cette espèce. L’analyse des connaissances et perceptions des enfants a montré que même si le carcajou ne leur est pas inconnu, de nombreuses lacunes sur l’espèce sont présentes reflétant un manque de connaissance général sur cet animal. Cependant, le carcajou reste un animal relativement bien représenté en dessin par les enfants, même si peu d’enfants connaissent son rôle écologique. Il existe quelques différences dans la représentation de l’animal selon le territoire/province dans lequel les enfants habitent. Les données collectées au sein du zoo ont indiqué que le public, d’une région où le carcajou a disparu, ne connait pas bien le carcajou, bien qu’il évalue positivement l’intérêt de cette espèce au sein du zoo. De manière prometteuse, exposer le grand public à cette espèce dans les zoos ou dans des camps d’été pour enfants semble être un moyen efficace pour promouvoir des attitudes positives à l’égard de cette espèce et encourager le soutien des populations envers sa conservation. Ces résultats montrent qu'il est nécessaire de mener des programmes alternatifs de sensibilisation et d'information du public au vu de la conservation et de la gestion du carcajou, en particulier dans les zones où de nouveaux programmes de gestion peuvent être mis en œuvre, afin d'accroître l'acceptation de cette espèce par la société et de sensibiliser le public à ce carnivore incompris. Cette étude souligne aussi l’importance de la participation des populations locales, adultes et enfants dans les programmes de conservation et gestion des espèces afin de garantir leur succès. De plus, les savoirs traditionnels et leur intégration dans la recherche scientifique devraient bénéficier d'une plus grande valeur. Enfin, les programmes de conservation doivent prendre en compte les souhaits des populations locales et collaborer avec elles, afin d’obtenir un plus grand succès.
The objective of this research is to investigate the relationships between local or First Nation people in Canada and wolverines, in different study areas and an ex-situ conservation site. In doing so, we hope to improve our understanding of these relationships and interactions with this species in order to adapt management policies and improve their fit with society’s needs and the local socio-cultural context. On the one hand, this study explores relations between First Nation peoples and the wolverine as well as the perceptions and social representations of this species by different societal groups (Elders, hunters, trappers, Indigenous/non-Indigenous children). On the other hand, it tries to understand the role played by wolverines in the context of ex-situ conservation (i.e. in a zoo) and knowledge and motivation by the public towards the protection of this species. We addressed these goals through the use of multiple different methods: semi-directed interviews, questionnaires, drawings, and participant observation, and applied these techniques in three separate study sites, both with and without wolverines. For example, we studied human-wolverine interactions in the North Slave region of the Northwest Territories with Indigenous populations (Dene and Métis First Nations), where people share the land with wolverines, gathering information from both adults and children alike. We then contrasted the knowledge and perceptions of these children with those of a second group that no longer have regular contact with this species, the Naskapi Nation in northern Quebec. Finally, at the St Félicien Zoo in Quebec, we qualitatively assessed the willingness of the general public to support conservation measures for this carnivorous species. Results indicated that Dene and Métis First Nations have a very deep knowledge of this species, which they admire and respect, which emphasized the importance of participation by First Nation peoples in the implementation of conservation programs for this species. In analyzing children's knowledge and perceptions, we found that while many children possess a basic knowledge about wolverines, there are numerous gaps in that knowledge which, if filled, may benefit future conservation efforts. Despite these gaps, the wolverine was relatively well represented in drawings by children, though their ecological role may remain be cloudy to some, and differences in their portrayal were apparent among territories/provinces in which children live. Data collected in the zoo indicate that the general public, in a region where wolverines have become extirpated, lack some general knowledge about this species and that the level of knowledge is not equal across the greater public. Promisingly, exposure to wolverines at the zoo or through children's camps does seem to promote positive attitudes towards this species and foster support for their conservation. These results shows that there is a need for increased awareness and public information programs for wolverine conservation, particularly in areas where new management programs may be implemented, to increase social acceptance of this species and raise public knowledge about this misunderstood carnivore. An integration of local populations, both children and adults, is necessary for a better legibility of management of the animal; as well as the valorization of traditional knowledge and its integration in scientific research. For the success of a species management program, it is inevitable to ask the people what they want and support the project. This study emphasizes the importance of participation by local populations, both adults and children, in conservation management plans for their success. Additionally, greater value should be assigned to traditional knowledge and its integration into scientific research. Finally, conservation programs must acknowledge the desires of the local populations and work together with local stakeholders if they wish to succeed.