Application Deadline Is Dec. 13
Arts & Sciences students interested in working in a museum or national park, thinking about a career in education, or wanting to improve their public speaking can apply for College of Arts & Sciences scholarships for Certified Interpretive Guide training.
The training, valued at $399, is Jan. 9-12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Baker 239.
The Certified Interpretive Guide program is designed for anyone who delivers interpretive programs to the public. It combines both the theoretical foundations of the profession with practical skills in delivering quality interpretive programming to visitors.
The College of Arts & Sciences is partnering with the Center for Campus and Community Engagement to provide the training at Ohio University.
Benefits to students in the program:
- An advantage when applying for interpretive positions, whether seasonal or full-time. The certification is widely recognized by parks, zoos, museums, historical sites, etc. Some state parks are requiring their interpretive staff to by Certified Interpretive Guide trained, even seasonal workers.
- Even if the students are looking at related fields, the certification could be a tipping point on an application. Smaller museums and parks may rely on their managers, curators, and even researchers to present public programs. The certification can be a great indicator of understanding of interpretive principles, and an elevated comfort level in preparing and presenting programs.
- In supervisory positions, the certification would help managers to hire and train staff and volunteers.
- The Certified Interpretive Guide program can be a “launch pad” into other, professional certifications with National Association for Interpretation, extending the possibilities.
- The concepts can also be applied effectively to any presentations, including teaching classes, public speaking engagements, and class projects.
College of Arts & Sciences students in any major are invited to apply for a scholarship for the Certified Interpretive Guide training, provided by Kenneth Bowald, educational programming specialist and a certified interpretive trainer. Participants will take an exam to receive certification from the National Association for Interpretation.
Participants must attend all four days to receive the certification.
For more information, contact Lisa Cohen, Senior Director of External Relations for the College of Arts & Sciences at Ohio University.
This 32-hour course includes:
- History, definition, and principles of interpretation
- Making your programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized, and thematic
- Using tangible objects to connect audiences to intangible ideas and universal concepts in interpretive programs
- Presentation and communication skills
- Certification requirements (50-question literature review; program outline; 10-minute presentation)
- All materials
At the end of the training course, students will take an exam and be scored on a presentation. CIG certification is good for a four-year period.
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