The purpose of this course is to provide zoo and aquarium staff involved in the daily care of animals with the background and skills necessary to enrich animal environments and to continue to advance enrichment in zoos and aquariums.  This 5-day course will include classroom time that provides a historical perspective of environmental enrichment as well as an overview of enrichment concepts, focusing on aspects of the SPIDER framework. Classroom time will also focus on communication skills, using resources wisely, safety, behavioral observation skills, problem-solving techniques and other programmatic considerations. In addition to classroom time, selected enrichment concepts and skills will be taught during group activities and individual hands-on skill development opportunities.  Students will also gain hands-on experience using the SPIDER framework in developing, presenting and evaluating an enrichment initiative for animals housed at a zoo.

Registration is now open! You may now register and pay online with a credit card! After logging in, choose "Professional Development" from the menu on the left. Next, click on the title of the event for which you would like to register. Finally, choose "Event Registration" from the options at the top and complete the registration process. When registering online, there is no need to submit the registration form. You will receive an acceptance email or waitlist email once acceptance decisions are made.