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The unique TOUCH project enriches the lives of orangutans in captivity. Also Is and Bento have their own touch screen now.
Willie is working with Dr. Hanna Wirman of The School of Design of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on the TOUCH project. In this unique project orangutan-safe touch screen computers are used as a platform for various online games for orangutans. Thus, these animals play with people, but also with other orangutans.
In nature, the life of orangutans is as a great 3D puzzle. They have so many problems to solve. The animals are very intelligent. It is therefore very important that these animals in captivity are offered enough enriching activities, in order to make life bearable and prevent them from being miserably bored. The volunteers who work in Tasikoki have a full-time job, constantly looking for ways to challenge the orangutans and other animals in the shelter so they play and spend their time. For example, food is hidden differently every time and new toys are created all the time.
The TOUCH project aims to play a role in the enrichment of orangutans in captivity. As part of this project, with support from the donors of Masarang, a touch screen is purchased for Is and Bento, the two orangutans in Tasikoki. Dr. Hanna Wirman has already introduced the two with a few games. They are very enthusiastic and not only use the screen with their fingers, but also operate it with their lips. The project will continue to develop. Willie hopes that due to this modern technology Is and Bento will in future be able to communicate with orangutans in zoos around the world and open human eyes for the intelligence and importance of these creatures and their environment.
For more information about the project:
http://www.mic.polyu.edu.hk/index.php/create/research/touch-project
Date: 2012-02-07 22:22:02.0 | | | |
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