The
Challenge (Project Purpose)
Chances are you have encountered interpretation many times during
your life, usually during a recreational experience.
Freeman Tilden's definition of interpretation, presented in his 1958 book Interpreting Our Heritage, is clear and succinct:
"Interpretation is an educational activity which aims to reveal meanings and relationships through the use of original objects, by firsthand experience, and by illustrative media, rather than to simply communicate factual information."
"Pre-settlement Wisconsin"
exhibit, Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame, University of WI - Stevens
Point
The two goals of interpretation are:
-
Interpret the site.
-
Involve the visitor.
These goals are accomplished in different ways at various parks, museums, nature centers, zoos, aquariums, arboretums, historical centers, and the many other places where interpretation helps visitors connect with the important stories of the site.
Common forms of interpretive media are:
Non-personal:
- Exhibits
- Signs
- Publications (brochures, books, posters, etc.)
- Sculptures or other tactile media
- Trails
Personal:
- Tours
- Costumed interpreters
- "Roving" interpreters (interacting with visitors as they walk around the site)
- Demonstrations
- Performances
- Information desk duty
