Asia-Pacific zoos in the 21st century : stakeholder perceptions of the roles and functions of zoos : a thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management at Massey University, New Zealand
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Date
2015
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Massey University
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Abstract
The advent of the anthropocene accentuates the transformation of ecosystems on a
global scale. This study responds to these concerns by assessing the role and function of
21st century zoos in general and the Asia-Pacific zoos in particular. The lack of
information on key zoo stakeholders (visitors, staff members, corporate sponsors and
zoo associates) is significant in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in Asia, where there
are complexities that may stem from cultural and societal differences. Furthermore,
current literature is predominantly based upon Western research and case studies, which
rarely take into account the complexities and differences of Asia. This research
considers the diversity of the Asia-Pacific region by examining the perceptions and
attitudes of the four groups of key stakeholders.
Zoos in six countries across the Asia-Pacific were visited over a period of six months to
March 2013 in order to assess the diversity of the study region. A literature survey and
meta-analysis of 138 zoo-based publications was employed to create a matrix table of
themes, stakeholders, and research outcomes. These results were used to design survey
instruments directed at stakeholder groups as well as provide a framework against
which the results of this study can be compared and contrasted. Quantitative analysis
such as Principal Component Analysis, Spearman’s Rho and Kruskal-Wallis H test
were used to analyse the results. The face-to-face and computer-based instruments were
augmented with the use of a reflective diary and personal work experience to triangulate
and validate the research results.
The results show that individual zoos across the world are facing similar challenges.
Differences in educational backgrounds and socio-cultural norms within the Asia-
Pacific region are reflected in stakeholders’ experiences, perceptions, and evaluations of
zoos. The results show that there are many differences amongst Asia-Pacific zoo
practices, visitor satisfaction, and stakeholder participation and these differences would
make it extremely difficult to coordinate activities at a regional level to give them a
single voice with a single agenda.
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Keywords
Zoos, Psychological aspects, Management, Asia, Pacific Area