As a part of the HOWL involvement in Tanzania, surveys were given to the participants to gauge their reaction to the experience. Following are a few of the comments that were received:
“It is important because it makes the kids enjoy and learn new things in the life, so they will understand the important of nature and make the other generations grow fond of nature and our resources.” Christina, age 15
“This act will create awareness to the young generation on the importance of loving and caring for animals in the National Parks.” Brenda, age 17
“This creates a future generation which will be alert and aware on the importance of animals which means poaching will be minimalized at the fullest. This too helps give rise to careers for the children who have love for animals. So we get people who can be conservationists, animal doctors, rangers, and other important environmentalist.” Jocelyne, age 18
“Children should visit national parks to learn more about different types of animals, to learn to take good care of the environment in order to preserve the habitats of animals, and to have fun and enjoy after having a hard semester in school.” Anna, age 18.
“It is very important, especially for government pupils since they lack text books which help them identify the animals, and also due to most children in government schools are of low class, which it is hard for them to pay money so they can visit the national parks.” Linda, age 17
“It is important for children to visit national parks and see animals for it provides education to them, and they learn characteristics of animals and generate knowledge. It is also a good source of adventure, enjoyment, and refreshment. Furthermore, they increase the prior knowledge they had, and it helps them to know the animals physically and by eyes rather than being explained.”
Sarah, age 18
50 people from age 6 to 47 completed surveys during the 2015 research phase of Education for Elephants. Results are below. Surveys were completed before, during, and after the visit to the park.
When asked how they felt when inside the park participants responded, “ good, very good, awesome, happy, excited, very happy.”
When asked if they would want to return, 100% answered yes.
When asked what memory they would take with them, 75% answered animals and 25% answered nature or environment.
When asked if they felt National Parks were important for Tanzania, 100% answered yes.
When asked if they would advise others to visit, 100% replied yes and gave reasons such as “It is very important to enjoy nature and learn about animals.”
