Historic Site Interpretation

Catalog description

This course aims to introduce students to the many issues and challenges in developing creative and engaging interpretation at historic sites and museums. Interpretation of historic sites will be explored through readings, discussions, field trips, case studies, guest speakers, and individual and group assignments. The primary topics to investigate will include historical significance and relevancy as well as on-line and on-site interpretive methods. The class will be introduced to new trends in interpretation and the challenges in developing engaging interpretive programs at a variety of historic sites. Students in this course will have an opportunity to participate in case studies that critique and analyze interpretation at several local historic sites. Students will gain practical public history experience by developing an interpretive planning project for a local history site.