Inclusion of Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at Museums, Aquariums, Zoos, and Science Centers in Canada

This study explored the facilitators and barriers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) encounter at museums, aquariums, zoos, and science centers (MAZSC). Ten staff members from MAZSC across Canada participated in semistructured interviews. Eighteen facilitators and 15 barriers to participation and inclusion in MAZSC were identified at the administrative, staff, environmental, and visitor levels. Environmental factors were most frequently identified as facilitators of inclusion, whereas administrative factors were most frequently identified as barriers. The interviews revealed that although progress has been made to improve opportunities for inclusion and participation for individuals with IDD, barriers to participation and inclusion continue to exist. Findings from this study can inform the continued development of inclusive practices and policies in MAZSC.