In recent years, aquariums have evolved far beyond passive display spaces. Interactive aquariums—those that allow visitors to engage directly with animals through touch tanks, guided feedings, immersive exhibits, and participatory learning—are reshaping how people experience, understand, and connect with wildlife. Below, we explore the evidence for how interactive aquariums influence learning, conservation attitudes, and long-term engagement with nature.
What Makes an Aquarium “Interactive”?
Before diving into outcomes, let’s define what we mean by “interactive.” In aquariums, interactivity often includes:
- Touch pools / touch tanks, where visitors gently handle marine animals under supervision. Wikipedia
- Guided animal encounters or feedings led by staff or educators.
- Hands-on exhibits or discovery stations, where visitors manipulate models, sensors, or augmented reality tools.
- Interpretive programming, Q&A with caretakers, and “meet the animal” sessions.
These features contrast with purely observational exhibits, where visitors view animals behind glass and read signage.
Learning Gains: Knowledge, Attitudes & Behavior
Cognitive Learning (Knowledge)
Multiple studies show that visits to zoos and aquariums—especially when interactive components are included—can increase factual knowledge about biodiversity, species, ecosystems, and conservation challenges. Conservation Biology, PubMed, Pressbooks at Virginia Tech
In a 2023 review, researchers found that cognitive outcomes (i.e. knowledge acquisition) were the most commonly measured learning outcome in zoo and aquarium education—about 37% of studies focused on this domain. PubMed
However, knowledge gains alone don’t necessarily translate into long-term behavioral change—but they are a foundational step toward deeper understanding.
Affective Learning (Attitudes, Emotions, Empathy)
Interactive experiences tend to engage visitors emotionally. Being able to touch, feed, or communicate with animals helps foster empathy, care, and a personal connection to wildlife. Some intervention studies show shifts in attitudes toward conservation following such experiences. Conservation Biology, Conservation Biology
For instance, environmental education research has used instruments to track changes in “connection to nature” or species interest post-visit. Taylor & Francis Online
Behavioral Intent & Spillover
One of the most critical goals of interactive aquariums is promoting pro-conservation behavior after the visit (e.g. recycling, supporting habitat protection, making sustainable choices). Empirical evidence is more limited here, but some studies suggest visitors’ knowledge of actions to protect biodiversity can continue to improve even months after a visit. PubMed, Conservation Biology
In a longitudinal survey study, the improvements in biodiversity understanding leveled off over time, but knowledge about actionable steps continued to rise between the immediate post-visit and delayed follow-up. PubMed
A 2025 meta-analysis on zoos and aquariums concluded that such venues provide unique informal learning environments and can increase visitor knowledge of conservation issues. Conservation Biology
Why Interactivity Seems to Make a Difference
Interactive features amplify learning and connection in several ways:
1. Multisensory Engagement
Touch, movement, and tactile feedback add layers beyond visual or textual cues. They help reinforce learning by activating multiple cognitive pathways. For example, touch pools let children feel the texture of animals they’ve only seen before. Aqueon, Wikipedia
2. Social Dialogue with Educators
Interactive programming often includes staff-led explanations, Q&A, and storytelling. The presence of a knowledgeable educator can greatly enhance learning—visitors ask questions, connect dots, and internalize concepts more deeply. PubMed, Pressbooks at Virginia Tech
3. Emotional Engagement and Ownership
When visitors participate (e.g. feeding, touching, naming), they often feel more involved and responsible. This emotional bond can increase empathy for animals and sensitivity to conservation issues. Conservation Biology, Pressbooks at Virginia Tech, Taylor & Francis Online
4. Repetition & Reinforcement
Interactivity encourages repeat engagement—guests may revisit the same exhibit multiple times or try different interactions. This reinforcement aids retention. Studies of zoo and aquarium education suggest that longer or repeated experiences lead to better learning retention. University College Cork, Conservation Biology
In one zoo camp study, knowledge gains persisted and even increased months later following repeated engagement. University College Cork
Challenges and Limitations
While interactive aquariums offer compelling potential, it's important to acknowledge limits in the research and practice.
Attribution and Long-Term Impact
It’s challenging to isolate a single visit’s impact on long-term behavior or attitudes, because so many factors influence a person’s knowledge and choices over time. Bronx Zoo, Taylor & Francis Online
Many studies rely on post-visit surveys or short-term assessments, which may not capture lasting change. Bronx Zoo, ResearchGate
Selection Bias
Visitors to interactive aquariums may already be more interested or predisposed to caring about animals and conservation. That means gains might partly reflect preexisting interest. Conservation Biology, Pressbooks at Virginia Tech
Animal Welfare and Ethical Considerations
Touch pools and interactive exhibits must be carefully managed to protect animal health and welfare. Inappropriate handling, stress, or overuse can harm animals. Wikipedia
Designing interactions that are safe, respectful, and educational is a delicate balance.
Lessons for Aquariums (and What Layton Aquarium Can Highlight)
If you’re operating or promoting an interactive aquarium (like Layton Aquarium & Wildlife Encounters), here are some evidence-based lessons to draw from:
- Focus on Educator-Led Interaction
Just adding touch tanks isn’t enough—staff-led interpretation significantly shapes learning outcomes. - Encourage Repetition and Return Visits
Interactive exhibits should invite visitors to return, explore differently, and deepen understanding over time. - Track and Evaluate Outcomes
Use surveys or simple follow-ups to measure not just knowledge gain, but changes in attitudes or interest. - Prioritize Animal Well-Being
Interactive exhibits should follow ethical and best-practice protocols to ensure animal welfare. - Connect Take-Home Actions
Provide visitors with simple, concrete suggestions to carry forward in daily life (e.g. reduce plastic waste, support habitat protection).