December 9-20, 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
Registration Rates
$600 Regular Registration (includes a complimentary one-year NAI membership)
NAI members receive a discounted registration rate based on membership type. Please log into your NAI account to see your member rate below.
Course Schedule
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.
This 32 hour course will take place Monday, December 9 through Friday, December 18, 2024, 1-5 pm Eastern Time. Students will have Saturday and Sunday. December 14-15 off, as well as Thursday December 19th and we will re-convene on Friday, December 20th for students’ final presentations. Please note that the last day often runs a bit over. Please allow some flexibility on that day.
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.
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.
Prior to the start of the course, you will receive information from your instructor on how the course will work and the times you will be meeting. For more information about the course, please contact Rita Poussaint Nethersole at [email protected] 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 [email protected]. Cancellations requested before December 2, 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.