Illuminating Cumberland Island:

Interpreting a Heritage Trail using Portable

Electronic TechnologyTerminal Project Proposal

PresentationHistoric Preservation Program

Sarah Helwick Lisle22 February 2007

Cumberland Island: An Introduction

• Research interpretive methods by National Parks for historic sites

• Determine how portable electronic technology can be utilized as an educational tool

• Identify and explain appropriate evaluation methods for the exhibit

• Research the five periods of cultural history of Cumberland Island as identified by the park service

• Create at least one portable exhibit complete with scripts, images, and interactive content accessible by a website

Major Goals and Objectives

Portable Electronic Technology and

M-Learning

M-learning is the term given to the delivery of training by means of mobile devices such as Mobile Phones, PDAs and digital audio players. M-learners are seeking lessons in small, manageable formats that they can undertake when it suits them.

From Wikipedia.org

The portable exhibit

• Exhibit Downloaded from Website (Civil War to Civil Rights: Downtown Heritage Trail )

• Audio Content

•Visual Content: Still Images and Video

Reasons for Engaging in this Topic

• Cost-effective

• Little impact on landscape and historic resources

• Tailored interpretive planning

• Access to remote sites

Key Questions and Issues

•What methods are currently used to interpret historic resources in National parks?•How is portable technology being utilized as an educational tool?•What methods are currently being used to interpret the history of Cumberland Island?•What are Cumberland Island's interpretive needs?•How can these needs be met using portable technology?

Project Scope and Limits

• Focus on historic, not natural resources

• Focus on one period of cultural history

• At least one exhibit will be created complete with website that includes maps, instructional informational, and downloadable content

•Website will establish framework for the addition of future exhibits

Student's Current Level of Preparation.

I have a general knowledge of the history of Cumberland Island and have visited many

times. I have been in contact with the park and they are very supportive andexcited about the potential of this project. A research trip will take place in

lateMarch. At the park I will evaluate the site and its resources to establish the

trail anddetermine stopping points. With a background in education and websitedevelopment, I am prepared to create an educational exhibit as well.

Methods to be Employed

• Research interpretation theory and methods

• Research theory and methods of mobile learning

• Conduct site evaluation to determine way-finding and stopping points

• Develop audio and visual components for portable exhibit

• Develop and design website to house downloadable material

Intended Audience

The main audience for this project is the staff and visitors of Cumberland Island National Seashore, the National Park Service, and other practitioners of education and interpretation.