FACILITY OF EDUCATION ACTIVITIES IN THE BOTANICAL GARDENS AND PARKS: EXPERIENCE OF SOUTH GERMANY

Some facilities of education activities in south Germany botanical gardens and parks are presented in this article. Research was carried out in Munchen-Nymphenburg, Alpengarten Schachen and Augsburg botanical gardens, Munchen zoological garden, Munchen city parks (in the Museum of Man and Nature). The role of botanic gardens is as an advocate for the maintenance of biodiversity and therefore botanic gardens need to reorient their education programmes and incorporate a vision for a more socially and environmentally sustainable future. Botanic and zoo gardens can use a variety of techniques to convey these messages from guided tours, cultural activities and exhibitions to interpret signs and media such as the internet, radio, television and newspapers. Botanic gardens should develop and promote these institutions as centers for environmental education to schools and develop child-friendly policies and train staff in these policies, conduct regular audits to ensure that the gardens is 'child friendly' e. g. access points, eating areas, storage areas, activity/play areas. The subject areas covered by the Museum of Man and Nature are: the history of the earth and its forms of life, biodiversity, man's place within the natural world, man's role in shaping the natural world. The Museum presents an interesting and entertaining approach to natural science, in line with modern educational theory. Authentic natural objects, reproductions, models, interactive exhibits and audio-visual programs are employed to create a lively and stimulating setting. The section “Natural history playtime” successfully combines traditional and modern exhibits and appeals to young and old alike. Attractive exhibits and a convenient location make the Museum of Man and Nature a worthwhile destination for visitors of all ages. The official educational mission of this Museum “… to instruct and inform humans about themselves, their environment and about the threats to nature posed by technical civilization”.