Thesis
IMPROVING PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF WATER RESOURCE POLICIES THROUGH THE USE OF ONLINE SIMULATIONS AND VISUAL DESIGN
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
01/2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000004488
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/124805
Abstract
Experts have struggled with science communication when attempting to convey technical information to the public. This is especially true within natural resource policy. Issues of mistrust and lack of understanding have resulted in public rejection of scientific information and the policies it supports. Today, policymakers and natural resource managers seek out new innovative ways to improve communication and successful policy implementation. A current example of this can be seen in the aquifer decline within the Palouse Basin. Faced with a decision of providing alternative water supplies to the basin, members of The Palouse Basin Aquifer Committee are tasked with eliciting feedback from residents on which alternative is best for their community. In attempt to aid in this distribution, and create an accessible public feedback platform, a system dynamics model and two instructional platforms known as interfaces were created. Content within the interfaces remained consistent while the design of each differed. Interface A was designed through visual and design communication recommendations, while interface B followed traditional scientific design. Upon completion of the interface, users were prompted to a survey. Results clearly illustrate that images and graphs are more helpful than written sections when making an alternative decision. This demonstrates the need for STEM experts to no longer view visuals as a supportive after thought but as an effective avenue of communication with the public. Further design recommendations include that written sections must be concise in length, and to avoid or clearly define all technical jargon. Keep all audiences in mind when creating an interface and ensure disability and accessibility accommodations such as an audio option and mobile capabilities are present. Color within images is vital, but choosing the right range and amount of color is just as important. Intuitive colors within images helped increase understanding and retained attention but also caused the layout to appear cluttered and confusing. Finally, if the user is to navigate the interface without facilitation remember that explicit teaching and directional support must be present throughout.
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Details
- Title
- IMPROVING PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF WATER RESOURCE POLICIES THROUGH THE USE OF ONLINE SIMULATIONS AND VISUAL DESIGN
- Creators
- Lauren Kirkpatrick
- Contributors
- Allyson Beall King (Advisor)Jan Boll (Committee Member)Amanda Boyd (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Environment, School of the (CAHNRS)
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 86
- Identifiers
- 99900882139201842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis