Visitor Center
Experience Study
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has entered the final stages of the Visitor Center redesign project. The renovated space aims to welcome visitors and involve them in the movement to protect birds and biodiversity. The center features stories of scientific discovery, participatory science and conservation. Exhibit elements are designed to engage visitors and enable learning about birds and biodiversity.
Research Question
To what extent do the physical elements of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Visitor Center enable visitors to learn about the Lab’s comprehensive resources and mission?
The study of visitor behavior and engagement with exhibits at the Lab of Ornithology Visitor Center will contribute to the implementation of supplemental resources, including print material and interactive programs. The purpose of these materials will be to enhance the Visitor Center’s ability to serve as a bridge between the Lab’s goals and the visitors’ expectations.
Results: Survey
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Results: Behavioral Mapping
Description
Replication & Scalability
Procedure
The Visitor Center maps show zones that describe 3 broad visitor behaviors: passive, interactive, and questioning. These zones were formed by observer notes that overlapped in commonality.
The procedure is created uniquely for the Lab of Ornithology Visitor Center. As an internal study, this procedure is only replicable within this space. The first few observation sessions were conducted alongside the researcher and trained observer together. The researcher compared observation notes & used this to inform succeeding trainings with observers.
10-minute training*
Observatory: 20-minute observation
Discovery Lab: 15-20 -minute observation
Front Desk: 10-minute participation
World of Birds: 10-minute observation
Mezzanine: 15-20 - minute observation
5-minute debrief**
*Occurred at every observer’s 1st shift
** Occurred when time allowed
Results: Staff & Volunteer Interviews
