Conceptual change and killer whales: constructing ecological values for animals at the Vancouver Aquarium

Abstract

Changes in the mode of presenting the killer whales within the aquarium required both marine mammal and interpretation staff to change their conceptions of the role and value of killer whale ‘performances’. The process of change that staff underwent is similar to, and can be facilitated by understanding of, conceptual change processes among learners of science. Similar constructivist strategies of conceptual challenge can guide the staff's interaction with visitors, as an attempt is made to help visitors see the ecological relationships of wild and captive killer whales.