Being involved with a number of institutions in hosting, docenting, tour
guiding etc. ------it depends on what the person is expected to
accomplish. In the manner that I stay involved, I prefer to be a "HOST".
I provide welcome duties, directions, accurate and detailed, if
required, interpretations, monitoring and security, as well as escort
walk-a-rounds. The overall result is muti-faceted. It's surprising how
well most visitors appreciate the personalized attention they receive.
And it all is what I feel is the duty and purpose of a "HOST", not
necessarily a DOCENT. You could have "Teen Hosts" if they have
sufficient knowledge of their various responsibilties. I also have a
badge which has my name and underneath my name the word "EXPLAINER". It
actually opens up many conversations----I believe the origin is British.
I also think that "docent" is antiquated, stilted, and possibly a little
boring, and, it applies to the perception of adults as well as the
younger ages. Admit it or not, many adults don't know what a "Docent"
is, unless they frequent museums. Many people know where they can find a
docent, and they can presume what a docent does, but I believe there may
be some "warmer" and better descriptive name badge titles.
Al Frank , museum consultant and volunteer, HOST, and EXPLAINER
____________________________________________________________
Affordable Wireless Plans
Set up is easy. Get online in minutes.
Starting at only $9.95 per month!
www.netzero.net?refcd=nzmem0216
Original Message------
Has any one tried out using other words or phrases to describe your docents?
Our museum is creating a program that allows teens to act as docents, but we aren't convinced that calling them "Teen Docents" is the best idea. The word "docent" feels too antiquated, even for adults. We've thrown around ideas like "Gallery Interpreter" and "Exhibit Guide."
Any ideas for some fun, new alternatives?
Thanks!
------------------------------
Melisa McChesney
Museology Graduate Program - University of Washington
Seattle WA
------------------------------