CIP CIP Thematic Framework & Storytelling 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The 'universal concept' in an interpretive theme refers to:
- A theme translated into multiple languages
- A big idea that transcends the specific site and connects to broad human experiences or values (Correct answer)
- A concept approved by federal agencies nationwide
- A theme that applies only to national parks
Correct answer: A big idea that transcends the specific site and connects to broad human experiences or values
Universal concepts—love, survival, loss, discovery—anchor site-specific themes to human experiences that any visitor can relate to.
Question 2: In a thematic framework, 'tangibles' are best described as:
- Visitor center merchandise for sale
- The concrete, observable resources—objects, places, phenomena—that visitors can directly perceive at the site (Correct answer)
- Abstract concepts discussed in programs
- Financial assets of the managing agency
Correct answer: The concrete, observable resources—objects, places, phenomena—that visitors can directly perceive at the site
Tangibles are the physical, observable resources (a fossil, a battlefield, a tree species) from which interpretation builds toward intangible meanings.
Question 3: What is the relationship between 'tangibles,' 'intangibles,' and 'universals' in interpretive theming?
- They are three unrelated budget categories
- Tangibles are the physical resources that reveal intangible meanings, which connect to universal human concepts (Correct answer)
- Intangibles replace tangibles when resources are unavailable
- Universals are developed only after visitors complete surveys
Correct answer: Tangibles are the physical resources that reveal intangible meanings, which connect to universal human concepts
The tangible-intangible-universal framework moves interpretation from observable resources to deeper meanings to broad human relevance.
Question 4: Provocation in interpretation, as described by Tilden, is intended to:
- Cause controversy and media attention
- Stimulate curiosity and encourage visitors to discover meaning for themselves rather than passively receive facts (Correct answer)
- Provoke complaints from visitors to gather feedback
- Challenge staff authority
Correct answer: Stimulate curiosity and encourage visitors to discover meaning for themselves rather than passively receive facts
Tilden's principle of provocation aims to spark curiosity and active engagement, not to transmit facts passively.
Question 5: A 'site story' in interpretive planning refers to:
- The official legal history filed with the state
- The compelling narrative constructed from a site's resources, themes, and meanings to engage visitors (Correct answer)
- A fictional tale invented for children's programs
- The chronological list of site managers
Correct answer: The compelling narrative constructed from a site's resources, themes, and meanings to engage visitors
A site story weaves together the site's tangible resources, intangible meanings, and themes into a coherent, engaging narrative for visitors.
Question 6: Which approach best demonstrates 'thematic unity' in an interpretive plan?
- Every program and exhibit covers a different, unrelated topic
- All programs, exhibits, and media reinforce the same overarching interpretive theme (Correct answer)
- Themes change seasonally based on visitor demographics
- Each staff member develops an independent theme
Correct answer: All programs, exhibits, and media reinforce the same overarching interpretive theme
Thematic unity means all interpretive services at a site collectively reinforce the central theme, creating a coherent visitor experience.
CIP CIP Thematic Framework & Storytelling 2
The 'universal concept' in an interpretive theme refers to: