Training Goals and Objectives:

Goals:

The overall goals of this training are to strengthen the relationship between archeology and public interpretation and to improve how archeology is presented to the public. Participants will gain a general introduction to effective methods and procedures in the field of public interpretation of archeological sites. Interpreters and educators will gain knowledge about fundamental principles and professional standards in archeology as well as knowledge and skills for developing presentations and media about archeological resources. Archeologists will gain knowledge about standards for interpretation as well as knowledge and skills for developing effective interpretive presentations and media about archeological resources.

Objectives: Upon completing the training, participants will gain knowledge and skills to:

The course draws from the NPS's Module 440 Shared Competency Course of Study: "Effective Interpretation of Archeological Resources." Case study examples demonstrate interpretive approaches and techniques that have been effective in the past. Participants are assigned to interdisciplinary focus groups that examine local interpretation and education efforts and provide group critiques of programs and projects. Field trips are scheduled to local archeological sites and museums with existing and planned public interpretation programs.