Summer Internship: Visitor Experience Research Analyst Summer Internship: Visitor Experience Research Analyst Summary Title: Summer Internship: Visitor Experience Research Analyst ID: 1295 Department: Internship Description Objective The Research and Evaluation team is looking for Visitor Experience Research Analyst interns who are interested in how a large cultural institution like Shedd Aquarium identifies and studies its audience, and how it produces world-renowned exhibits and programs. Summary At Shedd Aquarium, we have a longstanding history of research and evaluation and have been providing a comprehensive look at our guests and their experiences with Shedd since the 1990s. The Research and Evaluation department strives to understand our guests' experiences - who they are, why they come, what engages them, what they learn, and how they connect to the aquatic animal world. Core to our practice is using a rigorous mixed-methods approach to provide data that informs institutional decision making and contributes to the field beyond. Responsibilities & Duties Demonstrate commitment to Shedd's vision, mission, and values Assist in conducting evaluations and research related to guests, exhibits and programs, which will include: gathering guest feedback through surveys and questionnaires, understanding guest choices by observation/tracking, and gaining in-depth information by interviewing guests Complete a focal project that involves the analysis and reporting of existing research data; example research projects may focus on the experience of families at Shedd exhibits, interactions between guests and Shedd volunteers, or assessments of an entire visit to Shedd Aquarium. Participate in transcribing audio data from observations and interviews, coding transcripts and live video, developing code books, analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, and writing reports. As needed, assist in daily data collection and other project specific tasks including data entry, report writing, and presentation of results. Other projects as assigned. Qualifications Special Skills & Experience The Research and Evaluation team needs a motivated self-starter with excellent communication skills who can work in teams and independently. A friendly, optimistic attitude and energetic personality is a must. Candidates need to have good attention to detail and be able to work within tight timelines and in a busy environment. Experience conducting qualitative and quantitative research and/or evaluation in informal settings. Candidates must be comfortable approaching guests to conduct interviews and distribute questionnaires and able to stand and move quickly through the public areas of the building, including stairs, for several hours. Computer proficiency, including intermediate knowledge of Microsoft office (i.e. Excel and Word), is a must; familiarity with SPSS a plus. Experience conducting literature searches and writing literature reviews and/or annotated bibliographies is preferred. Education: This is a great opportunity for upper level undergraduate students or graduate students who are interested in the following disciplines: evaluation, museum studies, sociology, psychology, anthropology, education, learning sciences and those who want to gain applied social science research skills. Time Commitment Two to Three days a week (Mon-Fri) minimum. Some weekend hours may be required for special projects. Set schedule based on intern availability. Application Deadline: March 1 st Applications will be accepted until positions are filled, or the application deadline, whichever comes first.