MUSE 214: National Museum Tour Guide Certification

Do you want to teach kids, give museum tours, become a better speaker, and/or lead outdoor trips? This two-credit course is designed for anyone who wants to lead educational programs for the public or school groups in settings outside of a classroom. It combines both the theoretical foundations of the interpretive profession with practical skills in delivering quality educational programming for visitors to parks, museums, libraries and other cultural institutions. We will learn about the history, definition, and principles of interpretation; universal design and inclusive practices; making your programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized, and thematic; using tangible objects to connect audiences to intangible ideas and universal concepts; and presentation and communication skills. Students will complete the requirements to become a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association of Interpretation (official certification from the national board requires an additional fee, though students may also take the course without becoming certified). The course will involve highly active, hands-on learning, and field trips to informal education sites such as museums and nature centers. The course will culminate with students designing and leading an interactive educational station/program for a public audience.