Visitor Engagement of Research Highlight and Evolution Wall Exhibits

Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of the Evolution Wall and Research Highlight exhibit in conveying the main topics of the exhibit: biodiversity and the research of Burke curators. Evaluation Questions: 1.What is the nature of Evolution Wall and Research Highlight use by visitors? What draws their attention? 2.Do visitors understand that the exhibit is about evolution and biodiversity? 3.To what extent are visitors aware that Burke curators are involved with and conduct current research? Key Findings: 1.The Evolution Wall and the photos were the most interesting components of exhibit for visitors 2.Most visitors did identify the main topic as either “evolution” or some aspect of biodiversity 3.Most visitors did not consider research a part of a curator’s job 4.Most visitors are interested in learning about the research done by Burke curators. The appendix of this report includes the interview protocol used in the study.