Zoo education at Chemnitz Zoo
For the first time in its history, Chemnitz Zoo has its own zoo educator
A zoo educator has been employed at Chemnitz Zoo since April. The newly created position was filled by an experienced educator who previously worked at Affenberg in Salem, ZOOM Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund Zoo and has over ten years of experience in zoo education. He has added to this with various internships, including in animal care and schools.
So what exactly does a zoo educator actually do? Do they teach the animals? Of course not. You could rather call them "people carers", because they primarily look after the zoo visitors, acting as a link between the zoo and the visitors.
In addition to research, species conservation and recreation, knowledge transfer is one of the core tasks of a scientifically managed zoo. Zoos represent biological diversity in a unique way and at the same time show why it is worthwhile to work to preserve biodiversity. Visitors learn about the diversity of the animal world and gain insights into biological and ecological relationships.
Knowledge about animals, species conservation, sustainability and zoo biology can be passed on in a variety of ways at the zoo, for example through (themed) guided tours, special events, information stands, hands-on activities, public relations work, information materials and, of course, modern media.
Today, many zoos have so-called zoo schools (Frankfurt/Main Zoo was the first in 1960), which offer learning programmes for school classes and other educational institutions such as kindergartens and universities. However, the scope of zoo education is not limited to such institutions. In principle, every zoo visitor can make use of them, for example by reading the signage at an enclosure. Because designing or writing these is also part of the field of activity of zoo education. Or by taking part in a public guided tour. Private groups, clubs or individuals can also book guided tours and other activities.
The greatest opportunity for zoo education is that you can experience animals live and with all your senses at the zoo. The zoo as a place of learning literally comes to life through the animals on display, so the experience plays a key role. The important thing here is not to lose sight of the educational mission, but to make (specialised) knowledge tangible.
Opening hours:
Chemnitz Zoo 9 am to 7 pm, last admission 6 pm
Game enclosure 8 am to 6 pm