Visitor perceptions of the outcomes of personal interpretation in Alberta’s Provincial Parks

Abstract

Park managers use personal interpretation to achieve a variety of outcomes for park visitors and the natural environment. This project examines whether these outcomes are achieved, the factors influencing how the outcomes are achieved, and the overlap among these factors across the outcomes. Based on interviews with visitors in three Alberta provincial parks, respondents indicated clear positive changes in enjoyment and perceived learning, but provided less evidence towards changes in attitudes and behavioral intentions. Many factors overlapped across the outcomes. These results will help interpretation practitioners plan, deliver, and evaluate programs for achieving desired outcomes in an efficient manner.