Abstract
Abstract
Since 2000, geocaching has been enjoyed by enthusiasts who wish to combine technology with a love for the outdoors. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine if geocaching can contribute to a participant’s understanding of natural resources and history. To comprehend these effects, a study was conducted at Minnesota’s Wild River State Park in the summer of 2010. Four volunteer participants were recruited for in-depth interviews and qualitative inquiry was employed to learn about their geocaching experience and collect their responses. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze the interview data and identify possible geocaching effects based on participants’ perceptions. Six main categories were identified including learning, enjoyment, new attractions, constraints, economic benefits, and damage to the environment. Findings suggest that participants believed that their knowledge of park history and natural resources increased through geocaching. Recommendations, based on the findings, were given to park managers and the Minnesota DNR.
Exploring the Effects of Geocaching on Understanding Natural Resources and History
Abstract
Since 2000, geocaching has been enjoyed by enthusiasts who wish to combine technology with a love for the outdoors. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine if geocaching can contribute to a participant’s understanding of natural resources and history. To comprehend these effects, a study was conducted at Minnesota’s Wild River State Park in the summer of 2010. Four volunteer participants were recruited for in-depth interviews and qualitative inquiry was employed to learn about their geocaching experience and collect their responses. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze the interview data and identify possible geocaching effects based on participants’ perceptions. Six main categories were identified including learning, enjoyment, new attractions, constraints, economic benefits, and damage to the environment. Findings suggest that participants believed that their knowledge of park history and natural resources increased through geocaching. Recommendations, based on the findings, were given to park managers and the Minnesota DNR.