Interpretive Foundations

Target Audience:

FWS staff who are involved in presenting Interpretive Programs.

Summary and Objectives:

Interpretation provokes participation in resource stewardship and helps system visitors understand their relationships to, and impacts on, those resources. This class provides time-tested tools, and techniques for connecting visitors to the resources. Once enrolled, participants will participate in the Eppley Institute online "Foundations of Interpretation" self-study class. This class must be completed prior to participation in the eight online, instructor-led sessions focused on FWS-specific interpretive topics.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the history and philosophy of interpretation.
• Describe the interpretive process.
• Prepare theme, goals and objectives for a program.
• Recognize the importance of providing interpretation.

Competency Addressed:

Written Communication - Basic, Research - Awareness, Oral Communication - Intermediate, Education and Training - Awareness, Writing - Basic, Outdoor Recreation - Basic