Docent Training

Patterns & Elements of a Great Tour

“Good interaction with the group is the first priority of touring”

the good guide, 82

the “ART” of Tours

A= Audiences Who are they and how do they learn?

R=Resources What personal and non-personal sources of information are available to

create/support interpretation?

T=Techniques How will you engage your audience?

The Interpreters Training Manual for Museums ,65

audiences“Interpretation for children is not a dilution of an adult presentation; it is a fundamentally different approach. For example, use clear, descriptive language; employ their imagination; get down on their physical level; let them help create a story about what they are learning.”

The Interpreters Training Manual for Museums, 64

audiences cont.

Emphasis on doing. Relate everything to their lives. Involve all of the senses. Have stations. Spend (max) 5 minutes at

each station. Spend a minute or two talking and a minute or two doing.

Focus on stories. Ask simple questions, focusing on the

physical aspects.

resources

oTour Totes oCulture Cases oMini Teaching KitsoBooks oEducation Closet: reconstructing

pottery, other activities

techniques: introduction strategies

Docent as Actor: “The ‘performance’ is intended to inspire, enthuse, and

inform the audience about the subject.” the good

guide, 118

Never talk down your tour.

Provide background information.

Introduce yourself.

Set expectations.

 

cont… Visitors need to know: (and be told more than once )

What the exhibit is about

What the exhibit has to do with the visitor

How the exhibit is organized

What the visitor is expected to learn from the exhibit

techniques:communication issues

Poor organization, complex sentences. Transitions

Use of Jargon. Incorrect Pronunciation. Speaking too quickly. The listeners may not be able to hear. The listeners may not be paying attention.

practical solutions:the dos and don’ts

Practice giving your tour to someone. Enunciation is important! Breathe through your diaphragm and purposefully “push” your

voice. Pointers on body language:

Don’t: carry things with you Stick both hands in your pockets rock from foot to footDo: Make eye contact wear appropriate, neutral clothing be self-confident and thoughtful Avoid nervous ticks

other notes:

Disruptive behavior: Don’t be afraid to take a stand with the group. Ask them

to be quiet, and don’t be afraid to have a chaperone step in to help.

Belligerent visitors: If anyone tries to start an argument, do not get involved. The best way to diffuse the situation is usually just to respond politely, firmly and then change the topic.

the good guide, 127

the endThanks for participating!

Please continue by viewing the other slide presentations in the

program, Choosing a Theme

& Questioning Techniques