Course Dates: April 15-26, 2024
Instructor: Rita Poussaint Nethersole
About this Course
The nationally recognized Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) program is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about how to develop and lead interpretive programs. This course will introduce you to the history, definitions, and principles of interpretation. During the course, you will develop a program outline and deliver a 10-minute thematic presentation, all with the support of your instructor(s) and fellow participants. You will learn how to make your programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized, and thematic, and leave ready to facilitate meaningful experiences that inspire engagement with the world around us.
This course places special emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion and culturally sensitive interpretation.
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 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.
Registration Rate
$235; the certificate is an additional $165
Platform and Access
You will need a computer or laptop with camera and microphone, with excellent Internet access, and the ability to login to Zoom.com for the online training. A smartphone or tablet is a useful backup device for emergencies, but should not be your primary access tool. For co-workers taking the course together, please note that you will each need your own device (computer or tablet) for breakout groups. Though international participants are welcome, all sessions and presentations are in English.
Schedule and Course Info
This 32 hour course will take place Monday, April 15 through Friday, April 26,1-5 pm Eastern Time. Students will have Saturday and Sunday. April 20-21 off, as well as Thursday April 25th and we will re-convene on Friday, April 26th for students’ final presentations.
Monday, April 15 – Friday April 18 – instruction and worktime
Monday, April 22 – Wednesday, April 24 – instruction (2 hrs) and one-on-one coaching
Thursday, April 25 – off (but I am available for one-on one coaching)
Friday, April 26 – final outlines and presentations
Please note that the last day often runs a bit over. Please allow some flexibility on that day. Class is a mix of instruction, discussion, worktime, and breaks to mitigate Zoom fatigue. Students must attend all classes synchronously on Zoom, including the presentations of the other students to qualify for certification.
Instructor Information
Rita Poussaint Nethersole combines a background in higher education with heritage interpretation. She holds degrees in Afro-American Studies, Higher Education Administration, and Critical and Creative Thinking. She has over 25 years of experience as an Animal Care Keeper Aide, Interpretive Guide, and Interpretive Trainer at Franklin Park Zoo/Zoo New England.
Contact Information
Registrants for the course should monitor their email for workshop related communications beginning one month before the workshop. Registrants who have not received any communication from the instructor by that point should check their spam folders and/or contact the instructor. Providing a contact phone number at the time of registration is highly recommended.
For more information about the course, please contact Rita Poussaint Nethersole at rita.nethersole@umb.edu or call (617) 699-0100.
Special Terms and Cancellations
Courses may be canceled due to low enrollment. In the event that this course is canceled, NAI will contact you and you will receive a full refund.
If you need to cancel your registration, cancellations cannot be made by phone and must be emailed to certification@interpnet.com. Cancellations requested before April 8, 2024: will be subject to a $60 cancellation fee; after this date no refunds will be issued. If fees paid are less than $60, no refund will be issued.