PKMT 206 - Interpretive Methods & Programming

3 Credits: (3 lecture)

Course Description
This course teaches students to plan, develop, and present interpretive programs for diverse audiences in parks and recreation. Emphasis is on lesson planning, learning theory, audience engagement, and interpretive media. Students apply knowledge through hands-on interpretive presentations, publications, and displays. Field trips are required.

Note Spring semester only. 

Text
Ham, S. H. (2013). Environmental Interpretation: A Practical Guide for People with Big Ideas and Small Budgets (3rd ed.). Golden, CO: Fulcrum Publishing.

Objectives
The student will be able to

A. Explain the interpretive program planning process for a specific visitor group.
B. Apply teaching methods to personal or attended interpretive programs.
C. Present an interpretive program to demonstrate teaching competency.
D. Develop self-guided trails or interpretive publications using interpretive methods.
E. Utilize audiovisual and digital presentation tools effectively.
F. Construct an interpretive bulletin board.
G. Complete in Project Learning Tree training.

Content
A. Interpretation and Environmental Education
B. Lesson Plan Development and Teaching Techniques
C. Internal and External Factors Influencing Learning
D. Interpretive Presentation Skills
E. Self-Guided Trails and Interpretive Publications
F. Display Design and Construction
G. Audiovisual and Digital Technology
H. Project Learning Tree

Student Evaluation
A- G student evaluation will be tests, assignments, and projects.