David Powell

Posted on 5/14/09

Hello,
I wanted to make you all aware of a new DVD we've just
produced here at the Bronx Zoo called "Methods for Animal
Behavior Research". It is designed to be the definitive
tutorial in behavioral research. Over six chapters, the
viewer is taken through all of the steps of the scientific
process - from conducting literature searchings to
considerations for data analysis - as they pertain to
behavioral research. Chapters also cover developing
research questions and hypotheses, developing ethograms
(behavior lists and definitions), experimental design, and
observational data collection methods. Two example
research projects are developed and conducted over the
course of the DVD. There are supplementary materials in
PDF files on the DVD as well. The chapter on behavioral
data collection methods provides opportunities for
students to learn each method by collecting data from
video and getting feedback on their data.
The DVD is a collaborative project of the Behavior
Advisory Group of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
While it is generally written at the undergraduate level,
several chapters can certainly be used by high school
students, and maybe even some middle school students. Most
chapters are 15-30 minutes in length; the entire program
is just under 3 hours in duration.
The DVD is available from me at the Bronx Zoo for $5 per
copy (basically just the cost of DVD production and
shipping).

Any advice you have on getting the word out about the DVD
would be greatly appreciated. Contact me if you have any
questions. Thanks!

David Powell, Bronx Zoo, New York

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