Utilization of GPS Data Loggers and GIS Analysis for the Evaluation of Interpretive Signage to Influence Visitor Travel Patterns and Enhance Wayfinding in Parks and Protected Areas.
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| Title: | Utilization of GPS Data Loggers and GIS Analysis for the Evaluation of Interpretive Signage to Influence Visitor Travel Patterns and Enhance Wayfinding in Parks and Protected Areas. |
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| Authors: | Cochran, Amy1, Sharp, Ryan L.1 ryansharp@ksu.edu, Peterson, Brian1, Fefer, Jessica1, Martin, Chuck1 |
| Source: | Journal of Interpretation Research. Nov2023, Vol. 28 Issue 2, p166-185. 20p. |
| Subject Terms: | *Time management, Data loggers, Protected areas, Geographic information systems, Signage, Wayfinding, Travel hygiene |
| Abstract: | Interpretive signage is often used to influence visitor travel patterns and assist in wayfinding in parks and protected areas. However, there are few tools for managers to objectively evaluate the effectiveness of different interpretive signage. This study was conducted to demonstrate the utility of using GPS data loggers as an evaluative tool to determine if signage influences visitor concentrations, visitors' time allocation, and visitor travel directionality. Researchers distributed GPS data loggers to all travel parties who voluntarily participated. Analysis revealed that GPS data loggers and complimentary GIS analysis were useful for evaluating the influence of different signage treatments on visitor patterns of use, location of use, and timing of use. These findings suggest that managers tasked with interpretation and visitor orientation consider using GPS trackers and GIS to better understand their visitors' and plan where to focus messaging and interpretive efforts to meet managerial goals and objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Copyright of Journal of Interpretation Research is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) | |
| Database: | Education Research Complete |
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| Abstract: | Interpretive signage is often used to influence visitor travel patterns and assist in wayfinding in parks and protected areas. However, there are few tools for managers to objectively evaluate the effectiveness of different interpretive signage. This study was conducted to demonstrate the utility of using GPS data loggers as an evaluative tool to determine if signage influences visitor concentrations, visitors' time allocation, and visitor travel directionality. Researchers distributed GPS data loggers to all travel parties who voluntarily participated. Analysis revealed that GPS data loggers and complimentary GIS analysis were useful for evaluating the influence of different signage treatments on visitor patterns of use, location of use, and timing of use. These findings suggest that managers tasked with interpretation and visitor orientation consider using GPS trackers and GIS to better understand their visitors' and plan where to focus messaging and interpretive efforts to meet managerial goals and objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 10925872 |
| DOI: | 10.1177/10925872221139778 |
