Parks, Recreation and Tourism: Environmental Interpretation (A)

About PRT 4550 A

Philosophy, principles, and techniques of communicating environmental values, natural history processes, and cultural features to recreation visitors through the use of interpretive media. Prerequisites: Junior standing; Parks, Recreation and Tourism major or minor.

Notes

PRT Juniors and Seniors; Others by instructor permission Open to Degree and PACE students.

Section Description

In Environmental Interpretation, we will examine the history and principles of interpretive communications, practice communication techniques central to effective environmental interpretation, consider controversial topics facing interpreters, and learn about professional opportunities in the interpretation field. We’ll focus on different settings where interpretation is used: parks and protected areas, natural and cultural history sites, tourism destinations, etc. We’ll learn communication strategies for organizing and delivering written, spoken, and visual content. After completing the semester, you’ll:
1. understand how and why environmental interpretation is used in different contexts
2. be able to create, critique, revise, and present original interpretive materials

Section Expectation

One field trip will be scheduled during an extended class period (about an hour on either side of the class). One assignment will require an independent visit to a local interpretive site. Another assignment will require independent walking/travel around Burlington to survey publicly available interpretive displays.

Evaluation

Your final grade in Environmental Interpretation will be based on:
-Assignments
-2 exams
-Class participation

Important Dates

Resources

• Parking
• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks