Interpretation is the process by which museums communicate with their visitors. It is as much about stories, ideas and emotions, as it is about understanding and information. It can take many different forms, from panels of text to audio guides and live demonstrations. Effective interpretation is increasingly important to museums as they strive to explain the wonder of their collections, connect with visitors, and draw and inspire diverse audiences.
SMC works with a number of partners to support collections interpretation in museums, providing access to professional advice and information, useful resources and training opportunities.
SMC Published Resources
SMC has produced a comprehensive series of factsheets and guidance notes that cover many aspects of interpretation. This includes advice on how to plan for and evaluate the success of your interpretation, along with information about interactive media and funding considerations.
A Closer Look: Access through Interpretation (2001) was published as a partnership project between SMC and Interpret Scotland. These practical guidelines assert that people have a right of access to the collections and associated information that museums hold on their behalf.
Interpret Scotland www.interpretscotland.org.uk
Interpret Scotland is an inter-agency initiative made up of organisations with a national remit in interpretation, including SMC. The Group works to improve the quality of interpretation of Scotland's natural, cultural and historic sites, mainly by coordinating efforts at a local and national level and by sharing resources, expertise and experience.
Interpret Scotland Journal
http://www.interpretscotland.org.uk/website/interpretscotland.nsf/byunique/pastissues.html
The Interpret Scotland Journal is published twice a year to provide news and information on interpretative initiatives taking place across the country. It can be downloaded directly from the website or, if you would like to join the mailing list to receive your own hard copy, contact Sandra Phipps at Scottish Natural Heritage: [email protected]
Interpretation on Collections Link
http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/search/?keyword=collections+interpretation&Search_submit=Submit
Collections Link, the collections management advisory service managed by MDA, provides a range of guidelines and information about standards in interpretation. These are available on the website and you can also telephone Collections Link for one-to-one advice: tel 0845 838 4000.
Association of Heritage Interpretation (AHI)
AHI is a membership body which aims to promote high standards in the provision of heritage interpretation and to gain wider recognition of interpretation as a professional activity. As well as articles and information on current and award winning interpretative projects in the UK, it hosts a useful Directory of interpretative services and products. http://www.heritageinterpretation.org.uk/
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)
SNH works with Scotland's people to care for the natural heritage of Scotland. Its website provides useful introductory guidance on interpretation and provides links to further information and advice. It also provides events and workshops which address interpretation issues through its Sharing Good Practice Programme. http://www.snh.org.uk/wwo/Interpretation/default.html
SMC Training Courses
SMC regularly provides courses on basic collections interpretation. To find out whether a course is currently available, click on Training Programme.
SMC Grants
Full members of SMC are eligible to apply for grant assistance with many aspects of interpretation. For more information about our Grants Programme, current funding priorities, application forms and help notes, click on Grants.
