2021
I was contracted by BC Parks to research and write a report that aims to understand the science of effective interpretive signs from a research perspective. The findings of this report will lead towards the creation of content guidance and design standards as BC Parks works to revitalize its interpretive signage program.
The new 2023 BC Parks Signage Standards points to this report as an initial step in the section on developing Interpretive Signage.
The main objective of this report is to understand how interpretive signage can educate park visitors and support lasting positive behaviour changes in relationship to responsible recreation, conservation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
As part of the research for this report I conducted a jurisdictional scan of interpretive signage programs, across other parks agencies, museums, science centres, etc. A jurisdictional scan is a research method that looks into how different regions or sectors tackle specific problems or opportunity. Talking with other interpreters and designers was the best part of this project. I talked to folks from across Canada and the US and from as far away as Australia and New Zealand.
One of my signs is also included in the new BC Parks Signage Standards in the section on the Design of Interpretive Signs. I created this sign for Alice Lake Provincial Park as part of the BC Parks Foundation's Story Trail project.
The jurisdictional scan addressed topics such as:
I also conducted a literature review of research findings related to the development and effective use of signs in supporting visitor education, specifically in park settings, with diverse audiences (kids, seniors, visitors from another country, etc.)
The literature review identified topics that have been studied in this field to date, with an emphasis on more recent research, and briefly describes the methodologies used. I also identified emerging trends or future directions in this field and summarized evidence based best practices.
Using this research I wrote an easy to read 34 page report that provides recommendations about how BC Parks could utilize interpretive signage to educate park visitors and support lasting positive behaviour changes in relationship to responsible recreation, conservation and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
The report included supporting references, photos, links, and a bibliography that summarizes sources used in the project including academic journal articles, published books, government reports, websites, images and lessons from other agencies.
The report includes these sections:
The final report was delivered on March 31, 2021.
