An action research appraisal of visitor center interpretation and change

Abstract

This study uses an action research framework to evaluate changes to the visitor center-based interpretation of a natural environment. The context for the study is Australia’s Flinders Chase National Park, located in an isolated tourism region, namely Kangaroo Island in the state of South Australia. The island and the park are best known for the opportunities visitors have to see many forms of Australian wildlife. Surveys of over 700 visitors were conducted in 1999 and these results were used to inform the design of interpretation in a new and much larger visitor center. In 2004 further survey work with 450 visitors was conducted. The second study specifically reported on the overall effectiveness of the new center in influencing visitors’ satisfaction with the interpretation. The results demonstrate the value of action research in shaping interpretive practice.