Lincoln Park Zoo - Exploring Ape Behavior
Chicago-based Edgeworks Technology ignited a new "breed" of web-based applications geared to the public focusing on the ongoing overall cognitive behavioral research at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Utilizing the iPod Touch to demonstrate how learning can be both educational and entertaining. This technology allows users the rare opportunity to become a primate researcher for the afternoon at the Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes. This education workshop titled, Exploring Ape Behavior, allows the public to emulate data collection while allowing instant feedback and understanding of the observational data collected to aid in the educational purposes of the program.
The Lincoln Park Zoo's Exploring Ape Behavior is a unique opportunity for visitors to embark on their own primate research studies utilizing a web based application built by Edgeworks Technology specifically for the new iPod Touch and it’s Safari Web browser. This special behind-the-scenes program allows patrons to see firsthand how zoo research better helps us understand these extraordinary animals and educates participants in primate’s behavior and conservation.
Edgeworks Technology, Co-Founder Andrew Sheppard says, "The key interactive piece of the course ties technology with fun into the learning by creating a personal experience of observing the actions of these magnificent animals." According to Sheppard, "We helped implement the entire collection of technology used in the project, from the display and server running the custom application to the iPod Touch’s being used for the data collection."
"The custom software that Edgeworks Technology provided for Exploring Ape Behavior was precisely what we needed to make the program informative and fun for the participants. They were extremely easy to work with and provided a product that met all of our needs," explains Steve Ross, Supervisor of Behavior and Cognitive Research at the Fisher Center. For more information on Exploring Ape Behavior please visit: www.lpzoo.org/eab
Founded in 2004, Edgeworks Technology is a leading full-service custom software company offering solutions while creating subscription service applications to meet specific needs in the marketplace, recently listed in Crain’s Chicago Business. The company prides themselves on using their collective talents with a customized approach to business technology works.
ABOUT LINCOLN PARK ZOO
Lincoln Park Zoo, an historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. A leader in conservation science both globally and locally, the zoo exemplifies the highest quality animal care and educational outreach. The not-for-profit zoo, managed by the Lincoln Park Zoological Society, is a member-supported organization and one of the nation’s only free, privately managed zoos. For more information, call 312-742-2000 or visit www.lpzoo.org.
