Landscape assessment and evaluation of young people: comparing nature-orientated habitat and engineered habitat preferences

Abstract

The design of landscapes in botanical gardens varies between more structured habitats (engineered habitats [EHs]) and nature-orientated habitats (NOHs). Little is known so far about young people's perception of NOH and EH landscapes in botanical gardens. To address this question, the authors took 28 adolescents to two differently designed settings in an exemplary botanical garden. The authors assessed landscape preferences through marks that the test persons placed on the landscapes photographs, scenic beauty estimates, and accompanying interviews. As a result, the authors found a general preference for more structured landscapes among young people. Implications for biodiversity education in botanical gardens will be discussed.