Partners in learning and innovative teaching practices. An approach to conservation education to suit the context and purpose of learning skills in the 21st century: a pilot study

Abstract

Zoological institutions are unique learning environments that require a tailored approach to conservation education to suit the context and purpose of learning skills in the 21st century. In recent years, Lisbon Zoo, Portugal, has trialled an education model that combines contemporary learning theories with emotional learning. Just as nature is an inspiration in all sorts of visual and performing arts, environmental awareness and protection can kindle new ideas and projects. Technology has a reputation for being in opposition to the environment but it does not have to be. People can be challenged to find ways to use new innovations with smaller ecological footprints. Lisbon Zoo works with several partners in learning to help develop innovative teaching practices that improve learning outcomes for students and better prepare young people for life in the 21st century. The combination of technology and traditional educational programmes at zoological institutions appears to be an important strategy to engage people and to change the way they see the world around them. This paper will present our conclusions from a pilot study carried out to assess whether technology, if used correctly, would make it possible to convert knowledge acquisition into a much more motivating and fostering educational programme.