Tildens Principles are what makes something truly interpretive?
The main difference between interpretation is not what the message or program contains – the information – but how the information is presented.
To help us “arrange” our presentation we look to the basics of interpretation principles and Tilden’s principles of interpretation:
Provke
Interpretation is not instruction, but rather provocation.Ask provocative questions like:
“What do you think the symbols on cave walls represents”?
“How do we know the Aztec culture dates back over 7000 years at his location”? We will have a chance to work on “provocative”
Relate
All interpretive efforts must relate to a visitor’s personality, experience or interests. This includes tangibles, intangibles as well as universal concepts.
- Talk to your visitors before a program and relate your program to them using information you may have gained from your conversation with them – their interests, knowledge of the sites history, habitat, culture, art, etc.
- Take people’s recreation interests and make them interpretive (e.g. interpretation by bike, having an “interpretive” fishing clinic or boating safety program.
Information or Interpretation
Information does not equal interpretation, but all interpretation contains information.
Interpretation is an art
Interpretation is an art which combines many arts regardless of subject material. Any art is to some degree teachable.You might use acting, puppets, artwork, photos, props, storytelling or other artistic skills in developing your interpretive program or service.
Present th whole
Interpretation should aim to present a whole rather than a part.A critical aspect of successful interpretive planning is the development of themes.
In general, all interpretation should illustrate one main interpretive theme. These can be supported by program themes and sub-themes.
Interpretation for children
Interpretation for children must be designed specifically for children, and not simply a dilution of programs and information for adults.Interpretive programs for children need to have fun, hands-on, and edutainment with a clear theme or purpose in mind.
Analogies and examples need to be geared for children as well.
Tildens Tips
Tilden's Interpretive TIP’s To make remembering Tilden’s principles easier we came up with the TIP's, a short hand version of the main principles.
Provoke: attention, curiosity and interest.
Relate: to the everyday life of your visitors.
Reveal: the main concept or theme through some creative or unusual viewpoint.
Address the Whole: make sure your program relates to your main Project THEME.
Strive for message unity: use the correct supporting elements in your program to illustrate your theme or main concept.