Zookeeper Orientation Course (FLEX)

In this 6-week Flex (no live classes) course, learners will assume the role of a newly hired zookeeper and work their way through an in-depth orientation process. Learners will select two species from the zoo to focus on, however, they will still need to work with the other keepers to solve problems within the zoo as they arise. Each week learners will explore a new and unique aspect of zookeeping responsibilities, complete assignments, and work together to solve situations that affect the whole zoo. Every Monday I will post a new presentation or video as well as accompanying resources for the learners to review. Wednesday and Friday, I will post an assignment and/or real-world, zoo-wide scenario that the learners will have to solve together.
Weekly topics:

Week 1: Introduction to the Zoo
This week introduces learners to what a zoo is, the good, the bad, and the alternatives. This week also introduces the learners to the animals in our class zoo.

Week 2: Animal Nutrition, Cleaning, and Reporting
This week we delve into how to make animal diets, as well as how we keep records of those diets. We also discuss the importance and rules surrounding diet preparation, storage, and cleaning.

Week 3: Animal Enrichment
In this week, we discuss animal enrichment and its importance in maintaining the health and wellbeing of our animals. We will discuss various forms of enrichment as well as the rules and regulations regarding enrichment.

Week 4: Animal Training
In week 4 we discuss how we train animals at zoos and why it is important to do so. We will discuss the method of training that is most commonly used and why this method is the most effective.

Week 5: Public Engagement
Week 5 we focus on what separates a zoo from a sanctuary, the public. We talk about the varieties of public engagement at the zoo and why it is important. We will also look at how public interaction and engagement affects the animals within the zoo.

Week 6: Zookeeper Week
As a culmination of all previous week's lessons, learners will act as a fully trained zookeeper, keeping records of care, making important animal care decisions, and ensuring the highest level of welfare for the animals in their care.

There are no live animals in this course. This course is an in-depth simulation of what it is like to be a zookeeper based on my real-world experience as a keeper. This is a very fun and engaging course and is ideal for anyone who loves animals and/or is looking to pursue a career in animal care. 

The experience with this course changes depending on the animals the learner chooses during the first week. Answers to and information for assignments and their role in helping to solve zoo-wide problems will vary by animal. For instance, diet reports and training plans will vary greatly between students who work with our polar bear and students who work with our macaws. This means learners can take the course multiple times and have a different and enriching experience each time!