Using ArcGIS Story Map to Communicate an Emotive Topic: Responsible Cat Ownership in New Zealand

Abstract

This thesis examines how the general New Zealand public can be engaged with the controversial idea of responsible cat ownership by using ArcGIS Story Map as a tool. Cat management is a vital part of achieving New Zealand’s goal to be predator free, however it is a highly emotive topic, making it difficult to get the general public engaged. A transmedia approach combining multimedia, narratives and personal perspectives may provide an effective platform for increased engagement. The thesis reviews the effect of cats on wildlife from a New Zealand perspective as well as what responsible cat ownership consists of, and ways that this can be best communicated to the public (Chapter One). Principles of positive storytelling, use of personal stories as well as approaches like immersive scrolling and infographics are explored in relation to the ArcGIS Story Map application as a potential online communication platform (Chapter Two). The design and implementation of a Story Map about responsible cat ownership is the creative component of the thesis, which is described with a critical reflection on its construction (Chapter Three). This thesis concludes by examining how cat owners and conservation professionals responded to the Story Map on responsible cat ownership, and evaluates its functionality, inclusiveness and coverage of the topic (Chapter Four).