Readiness of Russian botanic gardens potential visitors to participate in educational interaction

Introduction. The effectiveness of interaction between education and science is determined not only by quality of educational content, but also by characteristics of its perception by potential participants. This article is devoted to the main component of students' motivation - their learning readiness -within protected natural areas and other natural objects. The goal of the article is to evaluate the readiness of potential visitors of Russian botanic gardens to participate in educational processes arranged within protected areas. Materials and Methods. The research methods included reviewing and analysis of Russian and international studies on creating learning environments within protected areas, promotion of sustainable development and transmission of natural science knowledge by means of educational and motivational tools of educational tourism. The research data were collected using Google Forms (a survey administration software). In order to process the data, the authors used Fischer criterion and graphical analysis tools of Microsoft Office Excel. Results. The study evaluated readiness and motivation to participate in a relevant educational interaction among potential visitors of Russian botanic gardens. The article examined factors contributing to the efficiency of this process: participants’ experience of interaction with botanic gardens, needs and interests in interaction with botanic gardens within different age groups. It was found that high number of respondents pursued educational goals in visiting botanic gardens. Integrative programs which combine educational, creative and entertaining components were chosen by visitors aged up to 55 years. Visitors aged 55 years and over preferred mainly educational programs aimed at obtaining natural science knowledge and mastering relevant skills. At the same time, the absolute majority of respondents believed that they had no experience of participating in educational events in the studied protected areas. Conclusions. In general, the study found a certain readiness for educational interaction among potential visitors of Russian Botanic gardens. The authors conclude, that it is necessary to pay special attention to arranging this interaction taking into account participants’ age characteristics.