InterpWorks

Training on why and how interpretation works—for everyone.

Our Framework

Our definition

Interpretation is the process of using objects and places to invite everyone to express themselves and their stories so that we collectively move the needle together on real-world issues.

Interpretation changes how people relate to and with themselves, each other, and the world.

What’s different?

We design around the audience, not the object. Resource preservation is a byproduct, not a destination. We prioritize bonding, social connection, and wellbeing outcomes over factual or cognitive learning outcomes.

How do we teach? 

We break the interpretive experience down into parts then focus on a family of skills for each part: visioning, question-asking and active listening, and filtering.

  • We anchor the interpretive experience in big, actionable, real-world issues by leading interpreters through visioning
  • We boost interpreters’ abilities to invite expression through question-asking and active listening.
  • We support interpreters’ storytelling skills through exercises in filtering information. 

The skillsets of visioning, questioning, and filtering scale from designing a 10-minute talk to a new exhibit.