Description
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Do you have a strong background and understanding of interpretation (perhaps in programming) but want to dig deeper? Do you struggle with interpretive media or writing? Are you curious about what exactly ‘dialogic’ interpretation means? If so, this certificate program is for you!
The Intermediate Methods in Interpretation Certificate is entirely web-based and consists of five interpretive courses each culminating with an applied assignment that relates to your organization or site. This course of study provides you with the opportunity to receive feedback from your instructor(s) who review the elements of your portfolio. Additionally, if you apply for and are accepted into the cohort-based program, you will work with a mentor who has considerable experience in the interpretive field who will guide you as you develop your intermediate skills.
If you are interested in applying for the cohort-based program (scheduled to begin in 2020), please contact Emily Jacobs at ejacobs@interpnet.com.Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a certificate issued by the Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands, Indiana University. Additionally, completing this certificate counts towards 24 hours of continuing education (self-paced) or 40 hours of continuing education (cohort-based) credit towards your National Association for Interpretation certification.
Course Schedule
Unless you participate in the cohort-based approach, each course is self-paced and allows for complete flexibility. You may take a couple of months or up to a year to complete the program. Students who participate in the cohort-based experience will take the courses together, starting in January 2020. For more information on the cohort-based program, click here.
The Eppley Institute recommends that you complete one course and all companion assignments each month to ensure maximum retention and connection of material.
Course Progression:
- Course 1: Interpretation on the Move
- Course 2: Essential Elements of Interpretive Writing
- Course 3: Design Elements in Interpretive Media
- Course 4: Social Media and Interpretation
- Course 5: Introduction to Dialogic Interpretation
The certificate program includes the following elements:
- Five self-paced, self-study e-courses
- Companion assignments, which allow you to apply what you have learned in the courses and are reviewed by course instructors, with substantive feedback provided.
- A Virtual Classroom site for storage of work and feedback
- Informational text
- Interactive activities
- "Learn More" opportunities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Informal assessment quizzes
- Final assessments
- Rigorous, field-based assignments
Following each course, you will complete an assessment which requires you to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. You will also complete assignments that will be reviewed by qualified instructors. Upon successful completion of the assessments and assignments, you will be awarded a certificate of completion, which will be mailed to the address you provide if you would like a printed copy. Additionally, completing this certificate counts towards 24 hours of continuing education (self-paced) or 40 hours of continuing education (cohort-based) credit towards your National Association for Interpretation certification.
Be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of intermediate concepts in interpretation such as interpretive writing, design and social media.
- Demonstrate understanding of emerging techniques in interpretation such as dialogic interpretation.
- Apply concepts learned to create basic interpretive signage, writing and social media posts.
- Demonstrate understanding of federal law and accessibility, and apply it to an interpretive operation.
Recommended Background
Intermediate Methods in Interpretation is intended for interpreters who possess strong basic skills in interpretation and who wish to expand their knowledge. It is recommended that participants bring a solid understanding and application of interpretive concepts such as tangibles, intangibles, writing interpretive themes, and writing interpretive objectives. This course builds upon NAI’s Certified Interpretive Guide certification and/or proValens Learning’s Fundamentals in Interpretation Certificate Program. Additionally, we recommend that you have worked in the field for at least two years prior to applying.
FAQ
Aside from an internet connection, what resources will I need for the course?
No additional resources are required for this course.
Will I get a certificate after completing the course?
Yes! All courses include a final assessment to evaluate your understanding of key course concepts. A certificate of completion will be offered to you if you complete the assessment with a score of 80% or higher. You will earn a certificate of completion for a certificate program after completing all program assignments and the assessments with a score of 80% or higher.
Why should I take this course?
Each Eppley e-course is designed collaboratively among experienced instructional designers, subject matter experts, and our partner organizations and institutions. The course curriculum includes current information and best practices in your field and is recognized by national leaders in parks, recreation, and land management. Not only will this course benefit your career by expanding your knowledge base, but also it will also enhance your understanding and practice in areas such as interpretive writing, designing interpretive media, and dialogic interpretation. Additionally, completing this certificate counts towards 24 hours of continuing education (self-paced) or 40 hours of continuing education (cohort-based) credit towards your NAI certification.
Students who apply and are accepted into the cohort-based program will also develop a relationship with a mentor in the field who has considerable expertise and experience in interpretation.
For more frequently asked questions, please visit our Help Center.