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2012 Spring Interpreters' Training School

May 20-23, 2012

Roaring River State Park

*Housing is available Saturday evening.

The Spring Interpreters' Training School provides instruction on basic interpretive skills and philosophy to develop presentations; gives overview of the organization and mission of Missouri State Parks; and provides demonstrations of how to interpret various topics to visitors.  This year’s school will focus on blending cultural and natural interpretation to connect our visitors with resources.

On Sunday, you will:

1)       Begin to become familiar with the mission of Missouri State Parks
2)       Take part in and learn how to present certain interpretive activities
3)       Get to know other interpreters near you

On Monday, you will:

1)       Understand what is expected of you in the coming days and months
2)       Gain insight into how to develop and carry out interpretive activities
3)       Develop an awareness of relating interpretive programming to themes
4)       Understand the mission of your organization

On Tuesday, you will:

1)       Become more familiar with different interpretive activities
2)       Understand a variety of resources to use in interpretive activities
3)       Understand that interpretive activities can take place under varied conditions

On Wednesday, you will:

1)       Feel good about evaluation
2)       Become involved in discussion on methods and techniques of presentations

Certification Information

At this training, you have the option to get one of the two certifications listed below. This is not required.

Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG)
New hires, seasonals, docents/volunteers, individuals who will be delivering interpretive programs or having public contact at interpretive sites but with no previous training in interpretation.  Certification Fee: $80 NAI members; $140 non-members (participant is responsible for fee)
• Minimum age – 16
• MUST ATTEND 32-HOUR WORKSHOP
• Program outline
• 10-minute program
• open book literature review

Certified Heritage Interpreter (CHI)
Experienced interpreters capable of developing and implementing personal programs and non-personal media.  Certification Fee: $125 NAI members; $200 non-members (participant is responsible for fee)
• Must meet eligibility requirements
• open book literature review
• essay exam
• evidence of performance
• NO WORKSHOP IS REQUIRED; however, a workshop is offered that fulfills several requirements for certification