January 16 - 19, 2023
Ozark Highlands Nature Center
3400 N. 40th Street Springdale, AR 72764
Instructor: Jay S. Miller
Registration Cost: $230 ($165 additional fee to add certificate)
The National Association for Interpretation (NAI) is offering a training course for individuals in the field of Interpretation. It is designed for individuals who deliver interpretive programs or have contact with the public at interpretive sites.
Course Options
There are two options for this course.
Option one: take the course without obtaining the CIG certificate.
Option two: take the course and add the certificate as a Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG). You will pay an additional fee for the certificate. The CIG lasts four years and comes with a complimentary one year membership. If you are already a member of NAI we will add your complimentary membership onto the end of your current membership.
The CIG Program
The nationally recognized Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) program is designed for anyone in the interpretive field. Whether you’re a new hire, a professional looking to refresh your skills, or beginning a second career, this course will aid you in improving your presentation techniques. The course combines the theoretical foundations of the profession with practical strategies in delivering quality interpretive programming to visitors.
This 32-hour course includes:
- The history, definition, and principles of interpretation.
- Techniques on how to make your programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized, and thematic.
- How to use tangible objects to connect your audience to intangible ideas and universal concepts.
- The 2 requirements needed to obtain a CIG (program outline, and 10 minute interpretive presentation).
Member Discount
Those choosing to apply for certification will receive a complimentary one year membership to NAI. Memberships will become active within a couple of weeks of registration and will allow you to purchase course books and other registrations at the discounted member rate. Once memberships become active, you will receive a receipt via email letting you know that you are all set up. Current NAI members will receive a one year extension on their current membership. If you are registering for $0, your membership will become active when you are certified.
Further Information
The Ozark Highlands Nature Center is in the heart of Northwest Arkansas just off I-49 between Fayetteville and Bentonville. The center sits on 62 acres, much of which is restored prairie habitat suitable for holding quail and other ground nesting birds. You’ll also find a branch of the Razorback Greenway, a paved 46 mile walking / biking path running from Fayetteville to Bentonville. Our branch follows beautiful Spring Creek from the nature center to Lake Springdale. Included with the 32,000 sq. ft. facility is an ADA trail through the prairie restoration area, 12 outdoor archery lanes with 3D targets, and the Marksmanship Center. This indoor classroom range has 10 lanes for anyone to learn the fundamentals of archery and air gun shooting.
Must-see educational destinations in Northwest Arkansas include Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, the Amazeum, Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, Museum of Native American History, the Walmart Museum, Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks, and Hobbs State Park Conservation Area.
There are a variety of types and prices of lodging within a short driving distance to the nature center. Details will be sent to those who register.
Special Terms and Cancellations
Participants are allowed to transfer one time at no charge. Cancellation and transfer requests cannot be made by phone and must be made in writing and emailed, postmarked, or faxed by January 2, 2023. Cancellations processed before the cancellation deadline will be subject to a $65 cancellation fee (if fees paid are less than $50, no refund will be processed). Cancellations made after this date will not receive a refund. Emailed cancellations and transfers should be sent to recertification@interpnet.com.