interpretivetraining.com

By Tim Merriman – 5/19/25

1. Truth and Transparency:
   All programming efforts should be based on facts, true stories, and verifiable information. When those are not available, the preferred response is: “I don’t know the answer.”
2. Experiential Learning:
   Every interpretive event should be characterized as an experience, emphasizing multi-sensory engagement over lecture-style delivery.
3. Conversational Connection:
   Every exchange with guests, visitors, or clients should be a conversation—rooted in listening and using questions to understand their needs and preferences.
4. Cultural Responsibility:
   All interpretive experiences should respect Indigenous cultures, recognizing their right to determine what stories and knowledge may be shared.
5. HEART as a Framework:
   The HEART acronym—Holistic, Engaging, Appropriate, Rewarding, and Thematic—represents the core principles of the HEART Approach to Communication.
6. Inclusive Application:
   Though interpretation evolved from natural and cultural heritage fields, it should be available to anyone using a social marketing approach to spark engagement and critical thinking.
7. Attribution and Integrity:
   When materials can be attributed to a specific author or creator, they should be clearly acknowledged in any usage.
8. Audience Sovereignty:
   The audience is sovereign. They have the right to come to their own conclusions about what is shared in any interpretive experience.
9. Outcome-Driven Practice:
   Success in interpretation should be measured using both program-scope measurable objectives and longer-term objectives that align with them.
10. Research-based – We value and teach the social science research that supports our training approach