For this DesignMatters project, Trans-disciplinary students worked in teams to create interactive exhibit items and platforms that could be implemented on site in a new exhibition at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Vanishing Animals.
Marine defaunation – animal loss in the global ocean – is a complex issue; the challenge was to create exhibits that would present the science in relatable terms without sacrificing the facts, and explain succinctly what extinction truly means, ultimately creating calls for urgent action to counter this potential collapse.
To better understand marine defaunation and human impact on both terrestrial and marine life, students were required to read a study published in the January 2015 edition of Science Magazine. This paper delivered hard, scientific data that was meant to be translated by students into accessible and engaging information for Aquarium-goers.
As students we also had 24/7 access to the Aquarium and the amazing staff there to answer any questions and help us to create useful and educational interactive experience.