Abstract
Interpretation is utilized by informal institutions such as national parks, museums, zoos, and aquariums to convey messages to visitors. This form of communication has been shown to enhance environmental education, producing significant results. Available interpretation materials include guided tours, brochures, pamphlets, signs, and other forms of media. Recent demographic trends in the Hispanic and Latine population segment of the United States indicate that engagement with these communities in the informal education sector is becoming increasingly crucial. The purpose of this project was to develop bilingual interpretive signage following the educational goals of Dolphins Plus Inc, a marine mammal facility located in North Key Largo, FL. Best approaches for the design and content of each sign were determined based on a literature review analyzing different trends, patterns, and goals of signage at zoos, aquariums, and museums. The final products convey information on topics including dolphin identification, marine mammal anatomy and biology, invertebrates, and ocean conservation. The designs include images and text that provide various learning experiences for a wide range of visitors in multiple languages (English and Spanish). Several constraints were faced in the production and design including production costs, organizational changes, visitor evaluations and sign assessment, but digital adaptations were made for future dissemination and analysis. This project aimed to increase awareness of conservation and attitudes among visitors, increase outreach opportunities within Dolphin Plus Inc, and enhance signage and content so that visitors of various linguistic backgrounds can learn more about science.