From Principle to Practice: Four Conceptions of Interpretation

Abstract

This multiple case study examined cultural interpretive programs for four different sets of goals or conceptions in a trickle-down effect from theory to practice. A proposed model, Four Conceptions of Interpretation, is based on foundational texts and empirical studies. The four conceptions are (a) connecting visitors to resources, (b) conveying agency mission and influencing behavior, (c) encouraging environmental literacy, and (d) promoting tourism outcomes. The data were examined for the presence of several different goals for interpretive practice. The study found that conception one was represented in all programs. Limited evidence of conceptions two, three, and four were found in participant recall. Although articulated in texts and training materials, evidence of the other conceptions’ goals were lacking from visitors’ short-term recall. This finding suggests that the practice of interpretation at the examined sites focused on conveying the seminal goal of connecting visitors to heritage resources.