Vive el arrecife. First interactive exhibition on Mexican coral reefs to improve their conservation
Author: Pedro Medina-Rosas – Universidad de Guadalajara, Mexico
Co-author:
Pedro Medina-Rosas – Universidad de Guadalajara
Mexico is a privileged country due to its location in the tropics and having coastlines in two oceans, where coral reefs develop and flourish, having a direct and indirect impact on the use of resources that sustain national economy. However, it is remarkable the ignorance that the general public has on marine organisms and phenomena associated with coral reefs.
The purpose of the exhibition is to improve the awareness about the critical current situation of the coral reefs in Mexico and the world. It is important to show the positive and negative impact we can have on coral reefs, even if we live in a city far from the ocean. The approach chosen is focused on the experience of the visitors, from kids to elderly, where they learn and be aware of the importance of the coral reefs by feeling and experiencing the diversity of organisms and processes involved in coral reefs.
This exhibition was designed by a team of scientists and educators, designers and science communicators as an educational experience to show the concepts included in coral reefs in a way that they could learn but also experience the environment through a sensorial visit. Additionally, visitors are invited to make a commitment with coral reefs by means of simple daily activities to improve the chances of having coral reefs in the future. The web site www.viveelarrecife.com includes activities for schools and visitors.
This is the first traveling exhibition about coral reefs in Mexico, and will be presented in science museums and spaces increasing the chances to reach more people and improving the knowledge on coral reefs in the country, which could help in their protection as well as their conservation.
The author has not yet submitted a copy of the full paper.
Presentation type: Visual talk
Theme: Science
Area of interest: Applying science communication research to practice