Historic Southern Indiana

TAKE A HIKE
Presented by: Karen Dalman

What is the Topic?

What is the program about?
Who is the target audience?
When will it be held? Day/night, summer/winter, etc.
Where will it be held? Do you have options?
Why are you doing the program?
How will you accomplish it? Will you use props? These can be as simple as a nut, a coin, or very complex and elaborate

Special needs or concerns....
Will they need a flashlight? Insect repellents? Rain gear? Appropriate footwear? Hand lenses? Binoculars?

Research...
There are many resources out there...is the information that you are sharing accurate? Correct? Don't forget one of the most valuable information resources available to you..the visitor!

Know your subject...
Don't try to bluff your way through either a program or a question. Someone will invariably know that you are making it all up. Besides, there is absolutely nothing wrong with saying "I don't know." But do try, if you are able, to get an answer for a particular question after the program is finished.

Arrive Early and Start on Time

Introduce yourself...
Welcome the group.
Address how long the program will last, where it will go, when and where it will be finished.
Introduce the topic and the theme.
Advise that the program will be informal to invite comments and questions along the way.
Any special rules? Regulations?

During the Program

Be the leader...
Make the first stop close to the starting point to attract latecomers.
Walk slowly enough so the group does not get too strung out. Keep track of the last person.
When you stop to talk, return to the middle of the group and address them as they face you.
Try to select a location for any stops that is large enough for the entire group to bunch up.
Carefully regain the lead when through.
Make stops less frequently with larger groups.
When speaking, you face the sun rather than having your participants face the sun.
Kneel, squat, or stoop by small objects, move up to larger objects when possible while talking. Also do this when addressing children. Don't tower over these small people.
Use a small mirror to cast a reflection on something that is not approachable. Keep the group moving. Do not stop for too long.
Always be on the lookout for teachable moments. Don't be afraid to vary from your topic.
Encourage visitor participation.
Be enthusiastic! Vary your speech rate and tone.
Avoid speech fillers such as "uh," "and," "you know," etc.
Avoid distracting mannerisms such as jingling keys or coins in pockets, packing, hands in pockets, rocking up on toes, etc.
Don't eat, chew gum, or smoke.
Maintain good eye contact.
Watch your language.

Wrapping Up

Thank them for coming...
Have a definite point for dismissal and close your program before the group sees the destination and becomes restless.
Announce the next program.
Make yourself available for any general questions.

Be on the lookout for...
Folks whose spirits are willing, but bodies are not.
Poison ivy, hornet nests, adverse weather conditions, etc.

Don't try to be someone you are not...

Find your own style and stick with it.

Use common sense and common courtesy.

Enjoy Yourself!!

8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600