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 o Tour Totes o Culture Cases o Mini Teaching Kits o Books o Education 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 foot Do: 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 end Thanks for participating! Please continue by viewing the other slide presentations in the program, Choosing a Theme & Questioning Techniques