Overview of Education within a Zoo
Zoo Science Writer
Zoo Curator
Zoo Education Officer
Zoo
Education Officer - Georgina Cairns -
CAMEO
Zoo Instructional Designer
Related Jobs or
Working with these Jobs
Overview of Education within a Zoo
Zoological parks are one of the best ways to learn about the wildlife with which we share the planet. Although curators, keepers, aviculturists, and aquarists are usually glad to answer visitors' questions, the Education department of a zoological park is eager to make each visit a fun learning experience for everyone.
Members of this department provide visitors and students with information about animals and plants in the park's collection. Through behind-the-scenes tours, special classes for all ages, instructional field trips, outreach programs, informative animal exhibit graphics, and multimedia educational resources, members of the Education department strive to help the public understand and appreciate the earth and its diverse wildlife.
A zoo education manager is
responsible for deploying the curriculum for a zoological institute to
the public in an informative and enjoyable way, and works to curate and
manage exhibits.
Part of the role of a zoo is to impart knowledge to visitors, as well as to entertain families and children. The staff are not just animal keepers, but zoological specialists whose job it is to understand the species under their care, manage their habitat and wellbeing, and communicate information on the plethora of species to visitors of the zoo. The Zoo’s Education Manager is responsible for designing the curriculum, which includes information posted around the site, the programme for interactive events and shows, and liaising with other educational facilities (zoos, universities and schools) to increase visitor numbers and the quality of education gained during the visit. They work to acquire animals and supervise their introduction into the zoo.
Information about the various species needs to be communicated to visitors in a way that they can understand. Depending on the type of exhibit, the communication may need to be detailed and informative, or perhaps in the case of a small petting zoo targeted at children, with easily-digestible snippets they can remember or write in school books. The balance of the animal “portfolio” under the care of the zoo is handled by the manager. As well as functioning as the zoo’s educational curator, the education manager must also work with other departments to improve the range of offering, the wellbeing of the animals and the quality of the visitor experience as a whole.
Michelle Howard is the Manager of
Conservation Education at Melbourne Zoo.
She heads a team of over 20 Educators.
(Source:
Melbourne Zoo)
ANZSCO ID: N/A
Alternative names: Director of Education; Zoo Curator of Education; Dean of Zoological Institute; Zoo General Manager;
Specialisations: Zoo or zoological institute; Aquarium; Wildlife Park; Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary; Marine Conservation Park; Reptile Park;
Knowledge, skills and attributes
-
Have a desire to work with a range of animals or a specific type and breed of wild animal
-
Develop a rounded understanding of conservation and animal biology
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Understand how best to serve the public’s desire or capacity to absorb knowledge on the various species
-
Be able to plan a large number of department projects and manage rotas and diaries
-
Have a flexible approach to work, be a team player and be able to arrange cover during absence
-
Be prepared to work long or unsociable hours, weekends and public holidays
-
Have an academic mind and be open to embracing opportunities for additional study
Education Officer
showing snake
(Source:
Seaworld)
Duties and Tasks
The Director of Education is responsible for creating the department's long-range goals, as well as developing interpretive plans for new exhibits. With the help of the entire department, the Director analyzes animal information programs and curriculum materials for appropriateness and quality. He or she interacts on a regular basis with the academic and general community, staying aware of needs, trends, and current issues affecting education. He or she might also serve on Species Survival Plan committees.
Education Manager oversees the daily activities of all staff members and coordinates the department's activities, programs, and projects, creating new programs when needed. This individual must be qualified to teach all classes the department offers, from kindergarten to college level. He or she is also responsible for successfully marketing all education programs, and ensuring that budgets are maintained. In addition to representing the Education department in inter-department projects, the Education Manager must have a current knowledge of major issues and trends regarding education, both nationally and locally.
Often, the department offers numerous programs that occur simultaneously. The Education Manager needs to be a strong planner, ensuring that each program or class, regardless of when it's offered, who teaches it, or where it's held, maintains a high-quality programming level. This position must also have an in-depth knowledge of the staff personnel in order to foster successful team communication within the department.
They work closely with all animal services departments, Design and Engineering department, Accounting department, Purchasing department, Human Resources, Marketing Services department, and Public Relations department.
-
Design a plan of education (curriculum) for deployment to zoo visitors
-
Assist with planning of dietary maintenance and medical care
-
Exercise planning and provision for wellbeing of the animals
-
Planning and design of enclosure and ground layouts
-
Liaise with other educational institutions to increase visitor numbers and quality of education
-
Manage in-house captive breeding programmes
-
Organise exchanges and transfers with other zoos, “acquisition” and feasibility studies
-
Oversee the introduction of new animals into existing enclosures
-
Compose copy for information material (signs, CD-ROMs, displays)
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Organise transport for animals being transferred
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Manage a large number of staff under direct and indirect supervision of the Department of Education
Working conditions
Education managers will typically work with zoos or zoological institutes, which may be small organisations specialising with a single species type, all the way up to internationally recognised centres containing thousands of different animals.
Although generally an educational/managerial-type role, the education manager has a high level of exposure to animals under the care of the zoo. This means the working environment can span the whole spectrum of dealing with dangerous life on earth, from lions, tigers, gorillas and crocodiles through to poisonous lizards and snakes. Much of the education manager’s time is spent either travelling (around the site, or to other zoos) or in the office, but there are long periods of time when they face exposure to cold, dirty and uncomfortable conditions.
The education manager must have a flexible outlook and be prepared to deal with a variety of hands-on situations involving any type of rare or dangerous species. The role is also intensely public-facing, so the education manager should have a desire to work with people and a desire to understand what motivates and pleases them.
As head of the department, the director is ultimately responsible for developing programs and materials that are relevant, educational, and fun. In some cases, the director must also provide interactive, educational elements and graphics throughout the park that guests are eager to use.
Education and training/entrance requirements
The Director or Manager
usually has a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or education;
Master's degree preferred in biological sciences or education. They
would also have five years of supervisory experience; ten
years of experience in the field.
Employment Opportunities
It is possible for education managers to join smaller zoological institutions with a Bachelor’s degree, and then take on and learn the additional range of responsibilities in order to progress to the role of education manager. This course of action is rare though, and most begin in the role as a Doctor of Biology or Conservation. Education mangers with several years’ experience have a wide variety of opportunities within this very broad general science, and may partake in overseas placements, university lecturing, chairing a board for a zoological preservation society, or being called on as an industry expert to partake in a television interview.
| Did You
Know? Taronga Zoo has live stream videos and other videos for you to watch Taronga Zoo Sydney - YouTube  |
Zoo educators teach visitors about the animals
that live at the zoo and promote conservation efforts. They may also
work at animal parks, aquariums, marine parks, environmental education
centers, conservation centers, or for publications. Some zoo educators
are also zoologists, zookeepers, or marine mammal trainers. They may
combine their educational duties with these other responsibilities.
Working to educate and influence the public about protecting species and the environment, education officers develop educational programs, workshops and volunteer programs. Education officers collaborate with facility managers to improve their programs, animal wellbeing and zoo visitor experiences.
Zoo and Aquarium Educators in a zoological park or aquarium narrate and answer questions at animal exhibits and during special animal presentations. They also provide guided tours for the public. Their knowledge level of all the animals and exhibits must constantly remain current. As Educators gain experience in the park, they can become Instructors in the department. Instructors teach the special programs sponsored by the department for school groups.
A zoo educator is responsible for providing
information about the zoo facility and teaching visitors about the
animals kept at the zoo. They interact with veterinarians, animal
nutritionists, zoologists, zoo keepers, and other zoo staff to keep up
to date with the latest happenings at the zoo and its animals. Some zoo
educators are also zoologists, zoo keepers, or marine mammal trainers
and combine their educational duties with these other responsibilities.
Zoo educators will promote conservation efforts for wildlife. They often
give lectures at college campuses or guided tours to zoo visitors, and
can also emcee educational shows put on by the zoo. A zoo educator may
be invited to speak at schools or summer camps to present informative
information to children, and may involve bringing and handling live
animals. They are usually responsible for creating educational materials
for a variety of age groups, such as handouts, posters, brochures,
videos, pictures, banners and workbooks.
ANZSCO ID:
2411Alternative names: Zoo Educator;
Specialisations: This depends on where the Zoo Education Officers are working: Animal Parks; Aquariums; Marine Parks; Environmental Education Centres; Conservation Centres; Reptile Parks;
Knowledge, skills and attributes
-
A proven ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and organisations, develop networks and to be a persuasive advocate in promoting the Zoo's moral purpose.
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Experience of teaching at primary and secondary levels
-
Experience with delivery of inclusive and supported education programs, catering to a range of disabilities
-
Experience of teaching evaluation methods
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Demonstrated skill in developing innovative education programs and resources to engage and involve a diverse range of students in an inspirational way.
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Sound knowledge and understanding of contemporary learning theories and curriculum developments.
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Understanding of best practice teacher professional learning.
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Excellent presentation skills
-
Excellent inter-personal skills
-
Excellent creative writing skills (including spelling and grammar)
-
Awareness of the value of data gathering for the assessment of education
-
Ability to work alone and as part of a team
-
Willingness to work irregular hours including evenings and weekends as required
-
Enthusiastic and self-motivated
-
Flexible approach to work
-
Excellent time management and communication skills.
-
Ability to work as part of a team.
-
Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite, Outlook, Word, Excel and online learning platforms such as Zoom.
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A passion for wildlife, conservation and the environment - proven dedication towards public understanding of the natural world
-
Awareness of the role of zoos in environmental education and biodiversity conservation
-
A Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate is required
-
Certificate III Captive Animal qualifications, or higher
-
Workplace training & assessing qualifications
-
Degrees in Biological Sciences and Education
(Source: Australian Reptile Park)
Duties and Tasks
Under the direction of the Head of Department, this role entails assisting with the production and delivery of innovative and unique educational experiences with the enthusiasm and passion of the zoo’s culture. The primary focus of this role incorporates the development, promotion and delivery of Australia Zoo’s educational experiences for school groups (i.e. pre-school, primary and secondary), universities and TAFEs, as well as community-based education groups.
(Source:
Seaworld)
-
Facilitate the development and delivery of learning experiences for our school audience by providing valuable real-world learning opportunities that enable teachers and their students to master skills and knowledge linked to their school learning and the broader aspects of zoo's conservation work.
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Deliver education programs for students ranging from Kindergarten to Year 12 through on-site and on-line experiences designed to facilitate student centred learning in an engaging and experiential manner.
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Organise education activities for zoo visitors, including trails, arts and crafts, face-painting and presentations
-
Work with the team to develop teacher resources that align with curriculum, provide support for the zoo experience and facilitate action projects in school that drive conservation impact.
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Provide a customer centric approach to support student and teacher needs for their Zoo learning experience.
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Establish safe, supportive and stimulating learning environments, which complement the delivery of key learning intentions.
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Care for the material resources of the Education department, including biofacts and technology.
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Collaborate with Education teams enabling a united team to work and learn together to achieve common goals.
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Ensure that teaching and learning experiences reflect best practice in current learning theory, curriculum direction and teaching professional standards.
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Ensure exemplary professional delivery of engaging learning programs to students and teachers through the Education for Conservation model.
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Ensure that teaching and learning practices are inclusive to all learning styles and abilities.
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Build the capacity of teachers and students as agents of change.
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Apply specialist Learning Area knowledge and skills to learning experiences.
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Make educational outreach visits to schools and other institutions
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Write zoo news and website articles
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Provide professional input into project working groups and strategic plans where required.
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Ensure continuous improvement is informed by evidence-based practice.
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Meet the annual teaching professional requirements to ensure delivery of excellence in education.
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Assist in the general duties involved in the running of the Education Department.
Working conditions
This role entails a high level
of customer interaction and requires good interpersonal customer service
and communication skills. Works with
Instructional Designers, animal services departments, and Public
Relations department.
This position is one of the more visible positions in a zoological park
or aquarium. The Educator is often the first person guests will
approach with animal-related questions. Despite long hours, weekly
schedule changes, and unpredictable weather, interpretive duties must be
performed in a consistent, accurate, informative, and entertaining
manner. Diplomacy and strong public relations skills are needed to deal
with guests and large groups.
Tools and Technologies
Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite, Outlook, Word, Excel and online learning platforms such as Zoom.
Education and training/entrance requirements
Working toward degree in biological sciences or has a Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences. They also need three years working with the public in a service-oriented job, and public speaking experience.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant
discipline (e.g. biology, zoology, conservation, environmental science,
science education)
| Did You Know? Georgina Cairns - Taronga Zoo Education Officer - CAMEO This information was taken directly from Best Career working with animals, Sydney Catholic Schools  Photo: Kitty Beale For the past three years, Georgina Cairns’ classroom has looked a lot different to other teachers. That’s because Georgina has been working for diocesan schools including Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) as an education officer at Taronga Zoo Sydney, where she has been sharing her passion for all things animals with students across NSW. What is your job and what does it involve? My position as a Taronga Zoo education officer is very diverse and combines my passion for teaching and wildlife. I deliver school workshops on the zoo grounds and often in the immersive classrooms to students from Kindergarten all the way up to Year 12. I also get the opportunity to travel around NSW to bring the zoo workshops and animals into classrooms. In addition to teaching, I am responsible for the coordination of various projects including digital programs, the Taronga Zoomobile and Project Koala. What do you love about your job? Every day I get to teach in the amazing immersive classrooms. These classrooms are animal exhibits which give students a unique opportunity to interact with wildlife. The animals move freely around the classroom and are conditioned to display natural behaviours. Each classroom is themed around an iconic habitat including desert, rainforest and woodland environments. Animals in each classroom include Greater Bilbies, Cotton-top Tamarins, Bush Stone Curlews and Nicobar Pigeons. “Seeing the student’s faces light up when they see monkeys running across vines or echidnas waddling around the classroom is a highlight for me” I get to share my passion for wildlife with schools, not only at the zoo but by travelling around with animals in the Taronga Zoomobile. An exciting part of the role is being trained to correctly handle animals for education presentations. I have been trained in handling different types of lizards and snakes, baby crocodiles, turtles, tortoises, possums, echidna and frogs.  What led you to this job? After school I studied a Bachelor of Science majoring in Zoology at the University College of Dublin, Ireland. Having spent one of my summer holidays volunteering in South Africa on a wildlife reserve and another volunteering at Taronga Zoo, I knew a career working with wildlife was for me. After teaching science at St Ursula’s College Kingsgrove for 10 years, I started my current role for SCS at Taronga Zoo. “Taronga Zoo Education Officer has always been my dream role” Why is the partnership between SCS and Taronga Zoo important? Taronga Zoo and SCS have a longstanding partnership – SCS is one of three Catholic education offices in NSW that employs an education officer at Taronga Zoo. I believe educators of the future must be advocates for the wild, so this role helps bring the animals, experts and resources of Taronga Zoo into our schools. In 2019, Taronga Zoo hosted SCS’ launch of their new Statement on STEM Learning. This event was the beginning of our partnership with the STEM team to create collaborative projects for SCS students. Tell us about your latest research/project? Taronga has been successfully running project in-situ within schools for over 15 years. It involves school children engaging their local community to take action in helping care for a locally threatened species. In 2020 I coordinated a new project in-situ with SCS called Project Koala. Students from select schools were guided through a STEM focused inquiry learning program which highlighted the plight of the koala and the recovery and preservation of the koala into the future. Students were empowered to design a conservation solution to ensure the ongoing survival of Koalas. The students came up with some really innovative prototypes and the project was a huge success. I look forward to running Project Koala again in 2021. What is your favourite animal and why? Since working at Taronga Zoo, my favourite animal is definitely the Short-Beaked Echidna. There is an echidna yard at the Institute and I love to stop and watch them waddling around. Once I start talking about echidnas in a lesson it’s hard to stop as there are just so many amazing features and facts about them, my favourite being that they are one of only two egg-laying mammals in the world; the other being the platypus. (Source: Best Career working with animals) Sydney Catholic Schools Project Koala https://youtu.be/xa6w3cxDjnI |
Zoo curators oversee the care and display of
animals at zoos and aquariums and manage the staff who care for them.
The job can vary considerably depending on the size of the facility.
They
may also select and acquire animals for the zoo and supervise zoo
employees.
Along with supervising the care of animals, Zoo Curators perform a variety of administrative tasks. They may hire, train, and schedule zoo employees and make decisions related to the daily operations of the zoo. Other duties include obtaining permits and ensuring that the zoo meets all federal and state regulatory requirements.
Working as a Zoo Curator is a
managerial position.
Larger zoos and aquariums may have several curators who specialize in
animal groups or in other areas, like education, research or
horticulture, along with a general curator who supervises them. Curators
at larger institutions may spend substantial time acquiring and
transferring animals, doing conservation fieldwork, lecturing, and
attending conferences. At a small zoo, there may be only one curator who
oversees all aspects of the care and exhibition of that institution's
limited range of species. Some animals may be very challenging to work
with, and this job can also entail dealing with ill or deceased animals.
ANZSCO ID:
N/ASpecialisations: depend on the size of the zoo or aquarium. Eg. Big Cats
Knowledge, skills and attributes
A motivating leader to our team of zoo keepers with high level customer service and most importantly, have the right attitude and self-motivation that will result in a positive experience every time for visitors to the zoo. Zoo Curators may occasionally acquire new animals for the zoo. This may involve purchasing animals from breeders or borrowing them from other zoos and animal facilities.
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Manual Driver’s License
-
Must hold or able to obtain a Q-Fever vaccination
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Must hold or able to obtain tetanus vaccination
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Ability to satisfy the requirements of a Working with Children Check
-
Must hold or be able to obtain First Aid
-
Tertiary qualifications in animal husbandry/zoology or have relevant experience or qualifications in captive animal management
-
High level of planning and organisation skills required to meet the daily challenge of a business
-
Exceptional interpersonal and team building skills
-
Minimum 5 years at senior level within the Wildlife industry.
-
A clear passion for and expertise in working with animals and the public
-
A strong background in people and performance management as gained through significant experience working as a Curator/Displays leader
-
An understanding of life support systems, plant and equipment to ensure correct maintenance is carried out in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations
-
A thorough understanding of animal welfare principles, animal behaviour, transport and husbandry development
-
Strong networking skills and links to industry partners
For aquariums:
-
An understanding of Aquarium Health and Safety, as well as specialist aquarium diving activities that relate to the care and maintenance of aquariums
-
A passion for sea creatures
-
Physical stamina and an aptitude for practical work – the job involves moving physical displays of sea creatures
-
Strong analytical skills
-
Excellent creative problem-solving skills
-
Strong research skills
-
Good decision-making skills
-
Good skills in personnel management
-
Good communication and interpersonal skills
-
Good observation skills
-
GoGood outdoor skills
Zoo Jobs: Meet a Curator
https://youtu.be/O-3CGnc-P9E
Duties and Tasks
As a zoo expands and acquires additional animals, it often needs more habitats to house the animals. The Zoo Curator is often responsible for supervising any expansions or renovations. You may work with Board members and staff to plan the development of new facilities or updates to existing habitats.
-
Maintain legislative requirements, permits as well as Zoo
Assisting with innovative exhibit development to enhance overall guest experience
Responsible for delivering best practice animal husbandry and welfare
Conducting public presentations and interactive opportunities guests
Engaging the public through interactive opportunities and educating guests on animals to enhance their overall experience
Ensure the safety of animals, guests and staff at all times
Coach and assist fellow members of the team on animal care and procedures as per the industry standards
Ensure best possible welfare of all animals at site, with protocols and programs meeting or exceeding global standards
Lead the team to deliver world-class displays with a focus on team engagement and development for implementation of innovative and pioneering display plans
Cultivate and inspire guest-obsessed teams
Ensure effective use and maintenance of life support systems
Driving the site’s rescue, breeding, conservation and research initiatives; strategizing for the implementation of new programs
Working as an integral part of the senior leadership team to deliver attraction vision, business and capital plans
Working closely with Marketing to align campaigns, PR, product and initiatives to deliver visitation and revenue targets
For aquariums:
-
Determining the species of sea creatures to keep in the aquarium – this involves analyzing the needs of the people who visit the aquarium
-
Examining the chemical characteristics of the water in the aquarium and determining whether it supports sea life
-
Figuring out the daily dietary and nutritional requirements of the animals in the aquarium
-
Ensuring the mechanical systems supporting sea life are working efficiently
-
Working to improve the viewing experience of the aquarium’s visitors
-
Identifying sick creatures and overseeing their treatment
-
Supervising aquarium workers.
Reporting to the General Manager, you will be responsible for leading the Curatorial Team (and Dive Teams, in an aquarium)
.Although curators have regular 9am to 5pm, Monday
to Friday schedules, they often work during the weekends. This is
because many people typically visit the Zoos and Aquariums
on Saturdays and Sundays.
These curators spend their workdays in the Zoos and Aquariums, where their offices are also located. They also occasionally hit the road to attend industry events, such as sea life expos or to view an animal for relocation.
A bachelor of science degree in an animal-related field is a basic requirement for curatorial work majoring in zoology, animal science, animal behavior, or wildlife management. Whichever scientific field they choose, you should be sure your coursework includes study of the management, health, reproduction, and behavior of animals. You might also consider taking some business-related electives to begin acquiring managerial and administrative skills, such as accounting or personnel management.
For aquariums:
To qualify for employment as an aquarium curator,
you need to earn at least an associate degree in any of the following
fields:
Marine science
Aquatic Biology
Aquarium Science
Regardless of the program you choose to pursue, it should offer courses
in the health and ecology of marine wildlife, fishery genetics, and
marine nutrition.
Gain experience in animal handling as early as possible. Previous work with animals is a requirement for zoo curators. Zoos and aquariums have student internships and volunteer programs.
After getting hired, it is important to undertake continuing education activities to boost your chances of moving a step ahead.
Since zoo curator jobs are not entry-level, you will need to work your way up through the zoo ranks. Some supervisory experience is normally a prerequisite as well. Many future curators gain key experience as zookeepers, the staff who are responsible for the day-to-day care of the animals. Other entry-level zoo positions, such as working in groundskeeping, administration, or tour operations, could also serve as good experience, especially for future curators of education, horticulture, or other non-animal areas.
For aquariums:
You can also begin as an aquarium technician, and work your way up as you gain more aquarium experience. However, choosing this route may limit your employment opportunities to small aquariums.
As a qualified aquarium curator, you can find jobs in:
National aquariums
Regional aquariums
Animal care organizations
After gaining several years of experience and earning an advanced degree, you stand a good chance of being hired as an aquarium director.
Zoo Instructional Designers research and write information for classes, education shows, and other presentations, as well as conduct classes for students and teachers. In conjunction with other members of the zoo education department, they create the curriculum and information resources the department publishes. They also conduct other group programs, including teacher workshops, professional organization presentations, and gifted and specially challenged classes.
Zoo Instructional Designers plan, develop and optimise instructional material, including online courses, seminars, instruction manuals, workshops, tutorials, multimedia training modules and assessments. They produce instruction manuals for Education Officers through to curriculums and technical courses for the Zoo's business management.
ANZSCO ID:
2411
Alternative names: Instructional
Designer;
Knowledge, skills and attributes
Demonstrated teaching experience in an educational, environmental and/or cultural institution; teaching qualifications specialising in particular developmental age levels; the curriculum areas of humanities, science and /or sustainability; and knowledge or experience of values education or conservation education will be highly regarded.
-
An ability to engage with K-12 students/teachers and the flexibility to facilitate age-appropriate teaching practices
-
Knowledge of inquiry-based learning and the ability to design student-centred learning opportunities for Middle Year students (Year 3-8)
-
Skills, knowledge and experience for enhancing teaching and learning through digital technologies
-
Demonstrated teaching practice and knowledge of environmental education, EfS (Education for Sustainability) and/or conservation education (Education for Conservation)
-
An ability to work cohesively in a team and also independently
-
Strong conservation values and an ability to promote the zoo and aquarium's key conservation priorities
-
Teaching Qualifications (Primary or Secondary) and a current Working with Children Check.
(Source: Georgia Aquarium))
Duties and Tasks
Instructional Designers must match course content and instructional techniques to teachers' and students' needs. And like all teachers, instructors in the Education department of a zoological institution must be able to readily adapt their programs on short notice.
Zoo Instructional Designer will develop and facilitate Education for Conservation learning programs designed to enhance connections between students and wildlife, strengthen ecological understanding and knowledge and support tangible conservation action within school communities.
This team member will bring their experience of developing and facilitating student-centred learning experiences that are underpinned by inquiry or challenge based approaches and promote transformative learning. Skills in collaboration and communication with internal and external stakeholders are essential to this role, as is the ability and desire to teach across a range of developmental age levels, from kinder through to Year 12 and teacher professional learning.
-
Designing, developing, and evaluating a broad range of instructional materials./p>
-
Analysing requirements and methodically developing instruction materials to match learning needs.
-
Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to determine specific design needs.
-
Planning and implementing training strategies.
-
Integrating feedback, student support, assessment and course evaluation into the training program.
-
Studying instructional theories, tools and resources
-
Conducting user testing.
Working conditions
Works closely with Curators, all animal services departments, and Public Relations department.
Tools and technologies
Instructional designers interact with a range of technology and have strong verbal and written communication skills, regularly consulting with clients and stakeholders to gain the necessary understanding of the subject to be communicated.
Education and training/entrance requirements
Bachelor's degree in education and a teaching credential. One to two years of teaching experience. Complete a qualification in Instructional Design. This may be a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40116), Diploma of Training Design and Development (TAE50216), or a Bachelor degree majoring in Instructional Design.
The Zoo and Aquarium Science Writer is primarily responsible for researching, writing, and editing exhibit information graphics, curriculum materials, information booklets, animal fact sheets, program brochures, and other promotional materials.
The
Zoo and Aquarium Science Writer oversees projects from first draft to final production, maintaining quality control throughout. This position also provides the Education Department and the zoo, aquarium or park as a whole with current reference materials, including books, articles, professional journals, photos, and other relevant documents.
ANZSCO ID: 212415
Alternative names:
Technical Writer
Specialisations: Each
Science Write might specialise in a particular animal or the Zoo or
Aquarium itself.
Knowledge, skills and attributes
Science writer skills are qualities these professionals use to
communicate scientific information to experts or the general public.
These skills, which include communication, research and organization,
help writers understand complex scientific data or theories and
communicate information to audiences clearly and accurately. It's
important for scientific writers to have knowledge of the topics they're
covering so they can explain information to others. They may use
research or logical thinking skills to help them gather information and
understand scientific methods.
Zoo/Aquarium Science Writers
should also possess the following specific qualities:
-
Communication skills.
Detail oriented.
Imagination.
Teamwork.
Technical skills.
Writing skills.
How Taronga Zoo, Cadbury Dairy Milk and the NSW Government are Saving the Northern Corroboree Frog
https://youtu.be/XmlB35j7aEs
How would you present the facts in this video?
Duties and Tasks
-
Communicate effectively:
Meet deadlines:
Adhere to style guides: Check with an organization or publication about specific style guides they may have for content. Adhering to these style guides can help you demonstrate your organization and communication skills.
Proofread your work: Editing your reports before you submit them can show employers your attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work. You can proofread your work by checking facts and figures, using editing tools or reading your work aloud.
Works closely with Instructional Designers, Education Director and Manager, Curators, Public Relations department, Photo Services department, Graphics department, Marketing Services department, and contractors.
Often, there are several projects due simultaneously, thus long-term planning and commitment is essential to maintaining schedules. At times, there are unexpected tight deadlines which require long hours with continuous attention to detail. Because of the in-depth interaction with other departments, the writer must have solid and strong interpersonal and verbal skills.
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and certification in technical writing preferred.. One year writing, editing, and proofreading experience; print production knowledge helpful.
(Jobs not linked are currently being researched)
Accountant |
Curator (Museum) |
Human Resource Professional |
Marine Biologist |
Marketing Officer |
Public Relations Officer |
Sustainability Consultant |
Teacher |
Veterinary Surgeon |
WHS Officer |
Writer Technical or Science Writer |
Zoo Keeper Zoo Manager/Director |
Zoologist |
Materials sourced from
My Job Search [Zoo
Education Manager; ]
Seaworld [Zoo Education Manager; ]
Balance Careers [Zoo Educator; ]
Zoo Aquarium Association Australia [Zoo Curator; Zoo Curator - Aquarium; ]
Career Addict [Aquarium Curator; ]
Best Accredited Colleges [Zoo Curator; ]
Careerfaqs [Zookeeper - Education Officer;; ]
Career Explorer [Zoo Educator; ]
Ethical Jobs [Education Officer, Melbourne Zoo; Education Officer; ]
Australia Zoo [Education Officer; ]
Seek [Instructional Designer; ]
Owl Guru [Zoo Curator; ]
Truity;
Melbourne Zoo [Staff; ]
Reptile Park [Staff; ]
Zoo Work [Zoo Education Officer; ]
Indeed [Science Writer; ]
