Driving Question:

How can I communicate the results of my own study into the impacts of commercial whale watching on marine mammals to a scientific/non-scientific audience?

The Project: Cetacean Research & Scientific Communication

In response to the driving question, Shangrila X. developed a year-long mastery project titled “Everywhere and Nowhere,” exploring cetaceans and the relationship between marine mammal behavior and human activity. The project sits at the intersection of marine biology, behavioral science, and scientific communication, combining research, field experiences, and data analysis.

Through this work, Shangrila investigated how scientists study whale populations using tools such as photo identification, spatial data, and emerging technologies. A central focus of the project examined the behavioral impacts of commercial whale watching, particularly in the Salish Sea, while also exploring how these findings can be effectively communicated to different audiences.

The Design Goal

Working from a self-defined vision, the student aimed to design and conduct a research-informed study on the impacts of commercial whale watching, while developing multiple methods to communicate findings to both scientific and general audiences.

Creative Direction:
The project blended scientific research with storytelling and communication, translating complex marine science concepts into accessible formats.

Production Process:
Shangrila engaged in an iterative process of research, fieldwork, and skill-building. This included completing the Bigg’s 201 course with the Orca Behavior Institute, participating in field observations, and developing technical skills in GIS mapping and statistical analysis using R.

Final Outputs:
The project resulted in a research-informed body of work including data analysis (GIS maps and datasets), scientific writing, and exploratory communication formats aimed at both expert and public audiences.

Final Product: A Research & Communication Project

The Assessment:
A comprehensive mastery project combining marine research, spatial data analysis, and scientific communication, supported by documented coursework, field notes, and a process portfolio.

Academic Component:
Completion of the Bigg’s 201 course through the Orca Behavior Institute, alongside independent research into cetacean behavior, GIS analysis, and statistical exploration using R.

The Summative Reflection:
The student reflected on the challenges of conducting independent research in a complex and multi-perspective field. Through the process, Shangrila developed stronger critical thinking skills, particularly in questioning assumptions and engaging with scientific uncertainty. The project also strengthened confidence in both research and communication, highlighting the importance of making science accessible. Moving forward, Shangrila aims to deepen technical skills in data analysis while continuing to explore how marine science can inspire broader public understanding and conservation efforts.

Driving Question:

How can I collect and analyze behavioral data to inform if species can survive and thrive in an artificial environment?

Project Summary:

Shangrila X, a Grade 10 student from TGs, undertook her first personal project around the topic of animal psychology and behavior. Initially inspired by Australia’s wildlife, she adjusted her project to study animals at the Melbourne Zoo, due to the lack of accessible wildlife in the urban area where she was studying.

Shangrila’s project was motivated by a childhood memory of seeing a gorilla in distress at a zoo, which made her want to better understand and improve animal well-being in captivity. She utilized ethograms, which are tools for categorizing and defining animal behaviors, to observe and record the actions of zoo animals. Her primary subjects were a Silverback Western lowland gorilla named Otana and Asian elephants.

During her observations, Shangrila noted a significant amount of inactivity in Otana, which she initially found concerning but later attributed to a possible midday rest period. She also observed stereotypic behaviors in the elephants, which are indicators of poor welfare in captive animals. The elephants often gathered at the edge of their enclosure, suggesting they were seeking interaction and stimulation.

Shangrila found that her data was insufficient for drawing scientific conclusions but emphasized the importance of public interest and involvement in animal welfare. She suggested that zoos have improved over time but acknowledged that they can never fully replicate the natural environment for animals. She proposed the use of technology, such as VR, to provide educational experiences about wildlife, potentially improving both public knowledge and animal care practices in zoos.

Overall, Shangrila’s project highlighted the complexity of animal psychology, the limitations of zoos, and the potential for technology to enhance education and animal welfare. She concluded with a hopeful outlook, believing that increased awareness and involvement can lead to a better future for zoo animals.