Article

Interpreting Archeology: Archeologists and Interpreters Working Together

Goal

Through training and other learning resources, Interpreting Archeology: Archeologists and Interpreters Working Together guides archeologists and interpreters to provide accurate and effective interpretation of archeological resources, values, and meanings to the public.

The two primary aims of the Interpreting Archeology series of resources are: 1) to improve archeologists’ and interpreters’ ability to communicate the significance and value of archeology and archeological resources to the public and 2) to work together on shared goals.

Getting to "Why"

Interpretation of archeology and archeological resources helps the public form intellectual and emotional connections with people in the past through the things and places they left behind. Interpretation is a powerful tool for archeology because it facilitates the connections between the public and archeological resources and their meanings.

Archeological resources reveal the everyday lives of people underrepresented in documents, such as indigenous tribes, women, and people of color. Its stories are relatable, powerful, thought-provoking, and inspiring. When communicated effectively, archeology makes the past personal and helps the public to view the world—and their role in it—with fresh eyes. When the public forms these connections, archeology becomes personally meaningful and relevant. As a result, they become inspired to care more about archeology and form a stewardship ethic for archeological resources.

Interpreters are at the front line, often in places where archeologists are not, where people form the attitudes and beliefs that shape their behaviors. Thus, archeologists play a critical role in helping interpreters bring public awareness to the significance of archeological resources and to their protection. Through Interpreting Archeology archeologists and interpreters can work together to ensure that archeological resources and their meanings are in front of our public audiences.

Audiences

The primary audiences for these training and learning resources are archeologists, education specialists, interpreters, and science communicators. Media specialists, law enforcement, cultural resource specialists, and managers of all resource disciplines may also benefit.

Training

  • Archeology for Interpreters: Online training for interpreters about archeology (DOI Talent, DOI employee access only)
  • Interpretation for Archeologists: Online training for archeologists about interpretation (coming soon to DOI Talent, DOI employee access only)
  • Assessment of Archeological Interpretation: Tool for evaluating interpretive programs

Job Aids

Learn more about archeology:

Learn more about Interpretation:

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Last updated: May 17, 2023