Place attachment and learning outcomes among tourists who volunteer for a U.S. National Park science volunteer program

Abstract

Volunteer science programs are designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of science by creating opportunities for the public to engage in science. This research assesses the impact of Map of Life-Denali on its volunteers. This program calls on park visitors to record wildlife observations while they visit Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska. This paper focuses specifically on place attachment and learning outcomes for the volunteers, who are mainly tourists. Results from volunteer surveys show positive volunteer outcomes of the program, with implications for the continuation of this program and the institution of others.