INTERACTIVE DISTANCE LEARNING


       

The Lee Richardson Zoo provides distance learning programs from our interactive television studio.  Students of any age can connect for a one-on-one visit with our education staff and some of our special animal ambassadors.  Choose one of our pre-planned program topics, or given enough time, we can create a program to fit your interests.  Programs can be adapted to most grade levels.   

Technology:
We use an IP system with H.323 technology.  For more information, please contact the zoo. We are unable to connection to ISDN systems.

Scheduling:
To schedule a distance learning program, contact the zoo's education division 8:00 AM - noon or 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST, Monday through Friday.  Effective October 1st, 2009 scheduling of distance learning programs must be completed at least three weeks in advance.

Please note:  Starting January 1st, 2010 a $100 fee will be instated for each program.  Programs will also be extended to 45 minutes in length rather than the usual 30.

**Programs no longer are scheduled only three months into the future.  Effective immediately programs can be requested for any time in 2010.**

**Requests through 2010 currently being taken**

Contact Information:
Misty Ayers
Distance Learning Coordinator
Lee Richardson Zoo
620-276-1250
mayers@garden-city.org  

 

Click here to view the LRZ's Distance Learning Brochure

Click here to view the LRZ's new Distance Learning Fee Policy

Click here to view the LRZ's Distance Learning Scheduling Policy

 

Recipient of the 2008-2009 CILC Pinnacle Award  

 

PRE-PLANNED PROGRAM TOPICS (all approx. 45 mins in length as of January 2010)

 

"The Mitten" by Jan Brett *NEW!*
Based off the Ukrainian folk tale that was adapted and illustrated by Jan Brett, this program will look at some of the animals that find shelter and warmth in the lost mitten of young Nicki.  Students will learn why the animals wanted in the mitten, and what the animals usually do to survive the colder temperatures of winter.  This program is designed for younger grade levels (pre K - 1st grade) and is therefore only 30 minutes in length.
   
Ready...Set...Recycle! *NEW!*
Where does our trash go when we throw it away?  Unfortunately, the "out of sight, out of mind" principle applies to many people across many generations.  Animals are helping us out behind-the-scenes though.  From the decomposers that eat the nasty stuff to the indicator species that tell us when something is not right, animals help us keep the environment clean and let us know when it is not.  Join us as we discover what happens to trash once it leaves our hands and what we can do to help make our environment a healthier place for everyone to live!
   
   
Home Sweet Home!  
Animals have homes just like people do, but instead of calling it a home, we call it a habitat.  A habitat must contain four things in order for the naimals to live healthy lives.  Habitats can also be very different in both size and structure and many animals are adapted to survive better in some habitats than others.  We will look at these characteristics and much more to learn what it takes to make a habitat a home.
   
Mammal Mania  
When most people envision an animal, the first thing they think of is a mammal.  Mammals are the most highly developed and intelligent animals in the world.  We will explore some unique features of mammals, and discover what makes them worthy of this "mammal mania".
   
Awesome Amphibians  
Get an up close look at these awesome amphibians and learn what makes them so amazing and why they are an important indicator of healthy ecosystems.  Discover many interesting features that group frogs, toads, salamanders, and cecelians in the same class.
   
Reptile Rumble   
Dry, scaly, and cold-blooded.  This description is enough to make many people shiver.  Gain a fresh look at these decedents of the dinosaurs and hopefully you will  gain an appreciation for their uniqueness.
   
The Sky's the Limit!  
Flying is fantastic!  For decades, man has tried to copy the abilities of flying animals.  Birds are the animal most commonly thought of as taking to the air.  Join my investigation into the adaptations necessary to make the sky the limit. Older students will look at the mechanics of flight, while younger students will focus more on the characteristics of birds.
   
Birds of Prey   
Some birds hatch with talons, sharp beaks, and keen eyesight for catching prey.  No seeds and fruits for these birds please!  Take this chance to learn more about raptors and how they fulfill their role in an environment as top predators.
   
Lack of Back  
Invertebrates, animals lacking a backbone, are some of the most bizarre and diverse animals on Earth.  In fact, 97% of all animals are invertebrates!  Meet a tarantula and a hissing cockroach, learn which is the smartest and best at camouflaging, and see other amazing examples of animals without spines. 
   
Creepy Creatures  
More than just bugs get a bad rap.  Many creatures have unfairly been given a bad reputation.  Often it is because people don’t understand them.  We will take a look at scary looking critters that are very beneficial and quite intriguing once you get over the 'ick' factor.
   
Animal Adaptations  
Adaptations are amazing!  Every animal is specially designed to survive their particular lifestyle.  we will explore important adaptations like teeth, body coverings, camouflage, the five senses, and more.  Here is your chance to investigate some of what makes each animal so unique!
   
Animals of the Prairie  
The grasslands of the Midwest are full of a wide range of animal life with amazing adaptations.  Nestled in the heart of sandsage prairie, the Lee Richardson Zoo will introduce you to some remarkable prairie wildlife.
   
What's for Dinner?  
Searching for food is a daily task.  While some animals are looking for their next meal, an animal is eyeing them for their dinner. One animal can be both a predator and prey in the same instant.  What makes a good predator and what makes prey successful to live another day?
   
Rock'n Rainforest  
Rainforests rock!  Did you know you can walk for a mile through a tropical rainforest and never see the same plant or animal twice?!!  Tropical rainforests provide the world with amazing diversity and resources.  See for yourself how important these 'stand of trees' are and even explore some not so tropical rainforests. (Did you know we have one in the US?)
   
Only a Memory (for 6th grade and higher)
Dodo bird, Tasmanian wolf, and t-rex are just a few animals that are only a memory for this planet.  We will look at, and discuss animals that still have a chance to be more than a picture in a book  Threatened and endangered species are found over all parts of the globe.  We will discuss challenges some of these animals face, and give you a chance to decide what you can do to make a difference. 
   
Summer Sizzle  
It can get hot out there!  In our part of the world we only see a few months of scorching temperatures, but some places like deserts are hot and dry year round.  What helps an animal survive these dry places and avoid sizzling in the summer sun?  Did you know that not all deserts are hot?  We will look into the adaptations that keep animals from overheating and dehydrating when water is scarce.
   
Winter Woes  
Snowshoes, seeds, and big jackets please.  Winter can be tough and it can be even tougher when winter lasts the majority of the year!  There are several animals that are perfectly suited to these frigid temps.  Wrap-up tight and venture with me into temperatures that can make you shiver.
   
Animals Down Under  
G'day mate!  Animals that are found in Australia are some of the most distinctive animals on Earth.  Travel down under with me as we peer into a pouch, leap over lizards, and discover other facts about animals found on this humungous island.
   
The Night Shift  
No need for night vision goggles here!  I’ll lead you on this journey to investigate the creatures that wake up as we go to bed.  Whether “pulling all nighters” is for finding food, mates, or other reasons, we’ll look at some of the nocturnal animals we have at the zoo.
   
Zoo Careers  
Ever wondered what it was like to work at a zoo?  It takes passion, dedication, and a lot of hard work, but in the end it is worth it to see the animals you care for living happy, healthy lives.  Even though most people automatically think of zookeepers when they think of a zoo career, there are actually lots of other people that are vital to keeping the zoo running smoothly.  Join us as we discuss the different careers available in the zoological field and as we talk about how some of our animal ambassadors are cared for. (NOTE:  This program is geared toward upper grade levels)
   

CREATE YOUR OWN TOPIC

 

Is your class studying mammals, habitats, or another nature-related topic?  We can design a program to fit your curriculum!  These programs require more time to construct.  Contact the zoo to discuss programming options.

   

Please call if you have questions or concerns.