Interpreting Sustainability Initiatives:The “Greened” Aiken Center at the University of Vermont
Katherine OstrootThe University of Vermont, Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources
Background
Guidelines for Interpretation
Regional Materials Map
Objectives Interpretive Master Plan
Develop a comprehensive master plan that contains an inventory of potential interpretive and educational media projects to be used in the Aiken Center Effectively disseminate information about the ecological and sustainable aspects of the Aiken Center in a way that is accessible to a wide range of audiences Convey knowledge and information in an engaging and effective way that creates an emotional and intellectual connection between the audience and the resource Complete various projects from the master plan prior to the reopening of the building
Clear and concise main theme Connection to the audience and their experiences, emotions and ideals Creates a bridge between old and new knowledge Sparks an interest, generates curiosity, and encourages audience participation Accessible to a wide range of audience types
The George D. Aiken Center, at the University
of Vermont, houses the Rubenstein School of
Environment and Natural Resources. The Aiken
Center reopened for the 2012 spring semester
after undergoing a complete renovation that will
help the school better fulfill its mission of
achieving a sustainable human community that
is in harmony with the surrounding natural
environment. The renovated building is a
working demonstration and living classroom
that will provide many opportunities for
learning and continued research for students.
An environmental interpretation class that ran
during the fall 2011 semester explored
interpretive communication skills and developed
an interpretive master plan and educational
media for the building.
Theme:The newly renovated George D. Aiken Center will serve to educate, inform, inspire, and provoke all visitors by emphasizing the sustainable features of the building, while also encouraging environmental competency. Project Examples: Guided tour to educate visitors Online, self-guided tour Digital touchscreen monitor for informational displays Educational signs for the eco-machine Regional materials map
Interpretive Theme: Many materials used in the renovation of the Aiken Center were chosen to reduce the carbon footprint of the building and to support local economies.
Photo by Sally McCay
Created by John Kinnicutt, Kate Ostroot, & Alie Sarhanis
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