Project Profiles
Meerkat Exhibit Model created by EAST Middle School Students for the Little Rock Zoo
(AR) Meerkat Exhibit - (CA) 3D Laser Capture
EAST Students Design Meerkat Exhibit at Little Rock Zoo When Joe T. Robinson Middle School students Nick Kohler, John Bell, Jake Kohler, Cameron Tyler, Grant Scott and Andrew DosSantos brainstormed ideas about a project of interest, they never dreamed their idea would turn into a real exhibit at the Little Rock Zoo. This four-year project has progressed over time with new students stepping in for those who had moved up in school. The students used their skills to build a VersaCad (2D) and Trimble SketchUp (3D) model of a Meerkat exhibit. These models came to life when the EAST students collaborated with the Little Rock Zoo in hopes of creating the actual exhibit.
There are also glass walls on the sides of the exhibit for viewing. A keeper house on one end of the exhibit allows meerkats to enter and be cared for by zoo employees. Overall, it is a strong re-creation of a meerkat’s natural habitat.
The EAST middle school students shared their 3-D model of what the real exhibit will look like with zoo staff. The design included an African theme of the exhibit, incorporating a thatched-roof keeper house, restroom and straw-covered awnings. The glass dome in the center is a viewing area for children who can crawl through tubes to access it. It gives a feel of being right next to a meerkat.
The construction date to begin building the exhibit has not been determined, but when the project is completed, the EAST students cannot wait to see people enjoy the exhibit and learn more about meerkats.
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EAST QUARTERLY
The Little Rock Zoo was very interested in the exhibit idea and renderings and began a cost analysis. Students created an informational meerkat brochure and a physical model of the exhibit to display and share with the zoo and those involved in the planning.