Interpretive Docent Training
Starting Wednesday January 15, 2025.
Interpretive Docent Training with the Open Space Authority will introduce you to a new method and style of communication that will allow you to connect people to the nature that you love. This training will take place on select dates and times during January and February of 2025 (see schedule below). This is the training volunteers need to complete if they want to lead programs and hikes for the public in our managed lands. All training resources are provided to registered volunteers.
Wednesday Virtual trainings are from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday In-person trainings are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83658215730?pwd=5WEc28Zt0O9mu53fGibq9kVhEdGoOb.1
Introduction to OSA docent program ~ Our Mission ~ Expectations of docents ~ Expectations of staff ~ What IS interpretation? ~ How does it compare to environmental education? ~ Types of interpretive educational programs ~ Seasonal changes and expectations for our program ~ What to expect for the rest of the training ~
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Video introduction to the Open Space Preserves ~ Past programs and inspiration for future ones
Saturday, January 25, 2025
In-person training
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Rancho Cañada del Oro
Beginner Basics of Rancho Cañada del Oro ~ Logistics of programs here ~ Maslows Hierarchy of Needs ~ Programs for people with disabilities ~ Youth and family programs ~ Hike the Mayfair trail ~ 4.5 miles, 800ft elevation gain
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How to create an interpretive program ~ Tricks of the Trade ~ Making it interesting ~ Voice enhancement techniques ~ Interpreter’s Backpack
Saturday, February 1, 2025
In-person training
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
Meet at Berryessa Community Center, carpool up. Aquila loop trail ~ sample family program ~ Tarantulas, badgers, mountain lions and birds of prey ~ Penitencia Creek park ~ interpreting urban parks ~ Relocate to Alviso Adobe for group walk through
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How to do virtual programs ~ Interpretive techniques ~ Animal Cookies – the Basics on a several animals ~ Reading your audience and keeping them awake
Saturday, February 8, 2025
In-person training
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve
The Multi-Cultural History of this site ~ National Parks Anza Expedition Educational Trail ~ Tribal Relations – Our relationship with the Muwekama, amah-Mutsun and Tamien ~ Equine Ettiquette with Charlotte and Tyler ~ Relocate to North Coyote valley ~ Birding for Beginners ~Spreckels Walk
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Types of programs you can do. Programs possible at various locations. Finding your creativity and sharing your enthusiasm. Preparing your voice - voice strengthening techniques.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Virtual class
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Introduction to Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve (MOCR) ~ Butterflies, Endangered Plants, and why it matters
Máyyan 'Ooyákma Coyote Ridge Training requires attendance on one Saturday and one Sunday to prepare for the coming season.
Site visit and practice hiking for all abilities ~ Background on serpentine soils, endangered plants and animals, and management techniques for preserving this resource ~ "How to" on logistics about giving programs at the ridge ~ Review for seasoned veteran docents
Trainees should attend 1 of these weekend days, not both.
Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2, 2025
In-person training
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Máyyan ‘Ooyákma – Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve
Site visit and practice hiking for all abilities ~ Background on serpentine soils, endangered plants and animals, and management techniques for preserving this resource ~ "How to" on logistics about giving programs at the ridge ~ Review for seasoned veteran docents
Trainees should attend 1 of these weekend days, not both.
