Discovery Center Volunteer Interpreter

Description:

The Discovery Center is an exciting hands-on learning center designed for children from birth to age eight and their grown-ups. Surveys of visitors reveal that it is the most popular exhibit in the Museum for visitors of all ages. The Discovery Center provides visitors with the opportunity to explore a wide variety of science topics by manipulating real objects and equipment. Staff and volunteer interpreters play a critical role in facilitating the visitors' experience. Visitors are engaged in conversations and encouraged to use science process skills in order to experience the reward of discovering on their own. The Discovery Center provides unique opportunities for adults to explore the science of child development through interactions with University researchers and Museum educators.

Responsibilites:

*Volunteers will complete the training outlined in the Discovery Center Training Manual which includes an off-shift Discovery Center Orientation to become familiar with procedures, materials and activities in the Discovery Center and the Museum.

*Welcome visitors and facilitate their use of the materials in the Discovery Center.

*Exercise good customer service by sharing knowledge of the Museum's offerings, answering questions and striving to ensure that each visitor's experience is enjoyable.

*Attend on-going training sessions to maintain familiarity with Discovery Center materials, current Museum exhibits and programs and appropriate science teaching methods.

Qualifications:

*Summer positions for youth have been filled; however, youth ages 14 to 18 are encouraged to apply in late August, to start volunteering in the fall

*Minimum age requirement of 14 years old

*Interest or background in science and/or education

*Ability to work with people of all backgrounds, abilities and ages

*Demonstrated maturity, self-confidence, reliability

Commitments:

Minimum 4 to 6 month commitment, for one 3.5-hour shift per week, on any one weekday (Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri) or weekend day (Sat/Sun).

*Morning shift is 9:30am-1:00pm

*Afternoon shift is 12:30pm-4:00pm

*Friday evening shift is 3:30pm-7:00pm

Additionally, attendance at the New Volunteer Orientation session is required.