A new book written by UQ tourism academics is making it easier for museums and wildlife and ecotourism attractions to build a connection with their visitors.
Designing Interpretive Signs: Principles in Practice provides valuable information and advice on selecting sign locations, attracting and keeping visitors’ attention, organising information in an easy-to-follow manner, and evaluating and improving signs for a range of sites including museums, zoos, art galleries, aquariums, and wildlife and ecotourism experiences.
The book was written by UQ School of Tourism researchers Professor Roy Ballantyne and Karen Hughes, in conjunction with Associate Professor Gianna Moscardo from James Cook University.
Professor Ballantyne, who has an international reputation as a leading researcher in environmental education and interpretation, said that if interpretive signs were correctly designed and used they could vastly improve the visitor experience.
“Interpretive signs help visitors to understand and appreciate important aspects of our natural and cultural heritage,” he said.
“This book is based on research and the latest in educational and psychological theory. It uses real world examples and practical guidelines.”
Professor and Director of the Centre for International Training and Outreach at the University of Idaho, Sam H. Ham, said the guide was a “must read” for interpreters.
“Much is known today about why some signs succeed when others fail, and the authors have masterfully assembled that body of knowledge in what I believe is an unprecedented attempt to give practising interpreters the best available and most comprehensive advice on interpretive signage anywhere in the world,” he said.
Books can be purchased from the School of Tourism at The University of Queensland for AU$65.00 (including postage and handling) by emailing Karen Hughes on k.hughes2@uq.edu.au or by telephoning 0439 001 886.
Media: Kate Derbyshire (07 3346 9989 or k.derbyshire@uq.edu.au)
