I. General Concepts 3. Interpretation and Communication

Objectives and Methods

The aim of this chapter is to provide students with a general introduction to the discipline of interpretation. Students need to know the specifics of the activity of interpretation as opposed to simple delivery of facts and information. A careful and detailed planning is required in order to successfully carry out these activities. Specific needs, aims and resources must be carefully assessed before starting planning the activity. This section familiarizes students with the main issues addressed by interpretation and provides them with basic guidelines to undertake an interpretative activity.

At the end of the course students will:

• Be able to plan an interpretation activity and tailor it to the customer needs, estimating what are the human and material resources required.
• Be able to deliver an interpretation activity, making an adequate use of props and communication skills.
• Be able to carry out an assessment of an activity which has been carried out and use the assessment to improve their skill.

This course offers a practical, concise approach to the discipline of interpretation. Theoretical approaches have been minimized and referred to the bibliography at the end of the chapter. The contents of the chapter is structured into nine sections addressing nine practical steps to organize an interpretative activity.

Jaraba, a small village in the region of Aragón (Spain) has been chosen to provide examples for most chapters. These examples are presented with different design and typography so as to offer a clear differentiation between theory and example.

Introduction: What is Interpretation?

Section 3.1: Assessing the Potential for Cultural Interpretation