News

Worcester, MA, March 12, 2025 – On Thursday, March 6, WPI students, led by Professor David Ibbett, demonstrated prototype sound and sight technology for the EcoTarium’s African Communities exhibit. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with the new technology while students observed and gathered feedback on its effectiveness. This initiative is part of the EcoTarium’s exciting reimagining of its long-standing exhibit, with students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) contributing innovative sensory-based technology to enhance the visitor experience. This collaboration will help the EcoTarium update the exhibit to become more accessible, interactive, and engaging, while educating guests on climate change’s evolving impact on African animal habitats. 

“Collaborating with local universities like WPI is an incredible opportunity for both students and museums. We’re always looking for ways to engage with emerging talent, and this project is a perfect example of how student innovation can enhance museum experiences. We’re excited to see how their ideas and proposals —incorporating light, sound, and tactile learning—can make the African Communities Gallery more immersive for our guests. At the same time, this partnership allows students to explore unique career paths within cultural organizations and museums, applying their skills in new and impactful ways.” – Katie Chappell, Director of Education & Exhibits 

“It’s been a joy to watch WPI students become inspired by the cultures and ecologies of Africa and apply their creativity to enriching this gallery with interactive sight and sound projects.” – David Ibbett, WPI Music Professor

This project is part of WPI’s “Music and Science: Climate Change” class, which integrates music and technology to enhance storytelling and scientific understanding. The developed components could allow visitors to hear sounds tied to the exhibit’s themes, from animal calls to environmental changes, fostering a deeper connection to the impact of climate change on African wildlife.

This initiative is just one component of the EcoTarium’s broader commitment to exhibit accessibility and modernization. The Museum looks forward to further collaboration with WPI and other community partners, within more public listening sessions, as it refines the plans and gathers feedback for this revitalized exhibit.

For more information about the EcoTarium’s current exhibits, visit our website.