Instructions and examples for initiating a two-part weekly discussion with interpreters, using both email and in-person discussion. This process is intended to increase knowledge of ocean change issues and expand interpreters' ability to discuss these issues.
Choose a topic with an accompanying article and send to e-mail group, consisting of those who are already involved in training plus those who have expressed interest in participating. Include in the body of the email explanations, comments, questions and suggestions for discussion and interpretation.
The articles are chosen based on their relevance to the institution's mission. (The Daily Climate, http://www.dailyclimate.org/, is one article source which has a comprehensive daily newsletter.) Some articles are about basic science, some about causes and solutions, and some are controversial. The article is then presented as part of the daily in-person update for volunteers and staff. This provides interpreters who are about to go out to work with the public an opportunity to learn and express opinions.
NOTES: This presentation is one part of a daily update for interpreters. Updates are best received when delivered conversationally. It is helpful for the Update leader to familiarize themselves with the material, and to be prepared to paraphrase certain sections. The Update usually ends with a discussion about how the information relates to the institution and our interpretation.
Comments
Initiating Discussions
If you would like to be added to the New England Aquarium "Communicating Ocean Change" email list, please contact lbornhofft@neaq.org.