Prior to our visit to the garden, my group set a clear goal: to create an exhibit that would be highly accessible to African Americans while promoting knowledge of the African diaspora. We aimed to highlight the contributions of formerly enslaved individuals and explore how African American knowledge has influenced herbaria. To achieve this, we developed a preliminary plan, considering the possibility of designing an exhibit or educational program that would engage visitors with this important history.
Upon visiting the garden, our partners displayed a great deal of enthusiasm and commitment, actively engaging with us to help shape a comprehensive implementation plan. As we progressed through the presentation, it became clear to me that an ideal approach might involve incorporating a guided tour or video. Once we divided into groups and engaged in discussions around the tables, we had the opportunity to explore various ideas, reflecting on what we appreciated and what we believed needed improvement.
One of the most appealing concepts, from my perspective, was the creation of an website that would offer individuals a personalized walking tour of the garden. However, I recognized several potential challenges. Accessibility may prove difficult for individuals with certain disabilities, and older generations might struggle to adapt to the idea of using smartphones or relying on internet service to engage with an exhibit. Furthermore, upon reviewing the app and website provided by the garden, I found the interface outdated and cumbersome, signaling a need for significant improvements.
Despite these challenges, I still believe the app presents a promising option. Enhancing its interface to be more intuitive and accessible, as well as providing alternative formats such as a paper-based option for visitors, could address many of these concerns. These changes would help ensure that the exhibit is inclusive and engaging for a broader audience, ultimately supporting our goal of spreading knowledge about the African American experience and its profound impact on the world of herbaria.