Exploring Audience-Centered Experience (ACE) Interpretation: A study of visitor interests and live program outcomes in the U.S. National Park Service

Abstract

The National Park Service (NPS) has recently shifted interpreter training toward an audience-centered approach, emphasizing participation and personal sharing rather than one-way knowledge delivery to achieve more socially-focused program outcomes. However, the extent to which visitors want programs that invite personal sharing remains unclear. Survey data from nine NPS sites indicate that most visitors, across demographic groups, tend to prefer traditional interpreter-led programs over those involving open sharing of ideas among visitors. To better understand when these methods may be effective, this study also draws on systematic observations of 48 programs across 28 NPS units that incorporated deeper audience sharing, along with post-program surveys. Programs that emphasized human stories, connected sharing prompts to the program's theme, and fostered a safe environment to share tended to perform more strongly, though these qualities did not consistently produce improved social outcomes. Findings highlight both the potential and the limitations of audience-centered interpretation and offer guidance for future practice and research.