Meaningful Interpretation: How to Connect Hearts and Minds to Places, Objects, and Other Resources Edited by David Larsen See sample pages "The practice of interpretation requires good literature if it is to grow as a profession. I believe that this "Meaningful Interpretation" book is just the kind of professional literature that we need." Corky Mayo, Chief of Interpretation of the National Park Service

Based on a personal journaling format, Meaningful Interpretation uses questions, text, exercises, and the insights of colleagues to explore the relationship of tangible resources to their intangible meanings, the role and purpose of interpretation, and the responsibilities of professionalism.

The workbook is paired with An Interpretive Dialogue: A Conversation About Audiences, Meanings of Place and Professional Interpretation on DVD or VHS. The dialogue between Nedlit, a professor of philosophy and Dawn, an interpreter, explores the standards of professional interpretation and discusses concepts like stewardship, communication, controversy, accuracy and truth. Together they develop strategies to help diverse audiences connect to places with multiple meanings.

Meaningful Interpretation can be used as a whole, or through any of its parts. An interpreter can use it for self-paced learning. A supervisor can use it to coach an employee. An instructor can use it to design courses—selecting the elements that address the needs of his or her site.

This book is pertinent to all interpreters—brand new, experienced, volunteer, or paid professional. It includes natural, cultural, and historical examples and is useful for parks, refuges, zoos, museums, nature centers, and other places.

The workbook plus DVD set (#2-45942) retails for $59.95 each. A workbook plus VHS (#2-45941) is available for $59.95 each. The Interpretive Dialogue DVD (#3-21992) and VHS (#3-21991) without workbook are available for $14.95 each.

Orders can be placed by phone (877) NAT-PARK or (877) 628-7275; fax (215) 591-0903; or mail at Eastern National, 470 Maryland Drive, Suite 2, Fort Washington, PA 19034.

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